According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision, accounting for approximately 29% of all crashes. Many people mistakenly believe that these crashes are only “fender benders,” but the number of people seriously injured or killed in these crashes refutes these beliefs. Knowing why these car accidents commonly occur can help identify who is at fault for these accidents and responsible for paying for your damages.
Rear-end accidents can occur for many reasons and are often a result of multiple factors. Common causes of rear-end accidents in San Antonio include:
Following Too Closely
The reason why the rear driver is usually found at fault for these crashes is that Texas law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. Even if the driver in front of them suddenly slows down or stops, the rear driver should be able to avoid a collision if they are not too close to the vehicle in front of them. When drivers tailgate, rear-end crashes are significantly more likely to occur.
Distracted Driving
When drivers are distracted, their response time will be delayed. If the driver in front of them suddenly stops, they may not brake accordingly to avoid a collision. Anything that takes a driver’s attention off the focus of driving can be a dangerous distraction and goes against Texas’s distracted driving laws, including:
- Eating or drinking
- Inputting GPS inquiries
- Reaching for a dropped item
- Tending to pets or children in the vehicle
- Talking to passengers
- Texting or talking on a cell phone
- Interacting with an infotainment system
- Adjusting music, temperature, or other controls in the vehicle
Drivers should provide their undivided attention to the critical task of driving and avoid these and other distractions. Our San Antonio distracted driving accident attorney is an expert in handling these types of wrecks.
Speeding
Speeding can contribute to rear-end accidents. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more distance it will take to come to a complete stop after the driver applies the brakes. When drivers are speeding, they will require more time to stop. Our San Antonio speeding accident lawyer understands the detrimental outcome rear-end speeding wrecks can cause.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving can also contribute to rear-end collisions. Aggressive drivers may act impatiently around other drivers, tailgate them, weave in and out of lanes, run stop signs or red lights, cut off other drivers, or engage in other dangerous driving behaviors. Some motorists also “brake check,” which can lead to a heightened risk of collisions.
Contact Us Today If You Were a Victim of a Rear-End Accident
If you were injured in a rear-end collision, the San Antonio rear-end accident attorneys from George Salinas Injury Lawyers can investigate your case, gather evidence to prove fault, and relentlessly pursue fair compensation for your losses. You should not have to pay for someone else’s negligence.
At George Salinas Injury Lawyers, we provide our services on a contingency-fee-basis, so you won’t have to pay us attorney fees unless and until we recover compensation for you. There’s no risk or obligation to learn more about your legal rights in pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.