Rear-End Car Accidents

Serving West Virginia and Ohio, including Parkersburg, Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington, Wheeling, Belpre, and Athens

According to data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 30% of all car accidents are rear-end collisions. Though the majority of these accidents involve low-speed collisions, some are extremely serious, accounting for almost 10% of all deaths in two-vehicle car accidents.

Risk Factors for Rear-End Collisions

Because of how common they are, and how many of them occur at low speeds, many people assume that rear-end collisions are a minor type of car accident. However, even a rear-end accident that seems minor can cause soft-tissue injuries that require extensive medical treatment.

Whiplash is the most common serious injury suffered during a rear-end accident. If you are looking straight ahead when the accident occurs (instead of left or right), you are at an increased risk of whiplash, which can lead to a number of serious consequences, including:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Neck injury
• Ongoing pain
• Disability
• Increased probability of future injury

NTHSA data shows that women are less likely to strike others in a rear-end accident; they are more often the driver being struck from behind. Because of this, women are up to three times more likely to suffer from chronic whiplash following a rear-end car accident. Older victims are also more likely to suffer severe injuries.

Insurance Problems Involving Rear-End Car Accidents

Since rear-end collisions are commonly perceived as minor car accidents, you will probably have trouble trying to collect damages from insurance companies for any serious injuries you incur. Many insurance adjusters believe that the amount of damage to your car is directly correlated to the severity of your injuries. They will be suspicious if you claim serious injuries when your car is not significantly damaged.

Of course, we know this is far from the truth. Our West Virginia car accident lawyers at Jan Dils & Jim Leach, Attorneys at Law have years of experience helping accident victims document and express the full extent of their injuries, collecting medical facts and evidence to build a strong case.

If you live in West Virginia or Ohio and have suffered serious injuries in a rear-end collision, please contact our experienced car accident lawyers today to schedule your free initial consultation. We can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.