Rear-end collisions are quite common on California roads. A distracted driver might not notice a car at a stop sign, and a minor collision occurs. Of course, even a slight impact could leave the victim with serious injuries. Rear-end accidents that happen at higher rates of speed could cause worse harm for an occupant who never expected to get hit.
Injuries and rear-end collisions
Probably the most common injury that results from rear-end collisions would be whiplash. Whiplash refers to the violent back-and-forth movement of the head resulting from getting hit from behind. Whiplash might cause painful injuries to the neck ligaments, and the pain and reduced motion may persist for weeks or more.
A concussion could occur if the driver’s head hits the steering wheel or dashboard. The impact might even cause lacerations or fractures the skull, leaving the victim with a traumatic brain injury.
Sometimes, the victim might get hit by a much larger vehicle or one traveling so fast the impact’s velocity is extreme. Such situations could cause spinal damage, internal injuries, or worse. Death may be a likely outcome when the injuries are severe. Survivors of serious rear-end crashes could suffer permanent disabilities that limit their life activities forever. Such victims would likely seek compensation for the harm inflicted on them.
Legal consequences after rear-end crashes
Investigations of auto accidents could uncover gross negligence on a driver’s part. An intoxicated driver who takes to the road with a suspended license might have a challenging time deflecting blame in court. A distracted driver might not be as egregious to jurors, but the jury may still see the person’s behavior as irresponsible.
Insurance settlements or lawsuit awards could provide compensation allowing a victim to deal with the situation. In some cases, the awards could be significant.