Rear-End Collisions in Los Angeles: Common Causes and Who’s To Blame

The Prevalence of Los Angeles Rear-End Crashes

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common kinds of traffic accidents. Typically, these crashes happen when one vehicle is stopped, and another collides with it from behind. 

The driver of the vehicle in front is usually unable to avoid the collision. These crashes often result in severe personal injuries for the front vehicle driver.  

According to research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 30% of all motor vehicle accidents are rear-end collisions. 

Data from California Highway Patrol shows that there were 187,211 crashes resulting in injuries in one recent year. Victims of these accidents often have legal recourse to secure compensation for the harm they experience. 

Many potential factors can result in a rear-end collision in Los Angeles. Some of the typical reasons for these accidents include the following: 

• Fatigued drivers
• Lack of proper signage
• Distracted driving – such as texting or talking on the phone
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Malfunctioning automobile components
• Adverse weather conditions 

Determining the cause of your collision is critical if you hope to successfully pursue a car accident claim. A personal injury attorney will review your circumstances and help you fight effectively for the compensation you are owed. 

Determining Liability in a Rear-End Collision

Everyone operating a motor vehicle has a duty to operate their car, truck, or motorcycle safely. Motorists must follow the rules of the road and engage in reasonably safe driving behaviors. 

In most of these collisions, the motorist who rear-ends the other is to blame. For instance, suppose that a car is slowing down because the traffic ahead is stopped. If the driver behind them does not brake in time, and a collision happens, the driver in the back is likely at fault. 

But in other circumstances, the motorist in front is to blame for the rear-end crash. In examples like the following, the leading driver may be at fault: 

• The driver in front negligently slams on their brakes
• The leading driver reverses while in a lane of traffic
• The driver in front does not have functioning brake lights
• The leading driver does not use a signal when needed 

In these cases, the leading driver will probably bear some legal responsibility for the damage that results from the crash. However, the driver in the back may also bear some liability for the collision. 

Because of this, you should speak with an attorney in the aftermath of a Los Angeles rear-end collision. It is unlikely that you will recover the total value of your traffic accident case without the help of a skilled legal professional. 

Often, car accident victims are entitled to compensation for: 

• Vehicular damage
• Pain and suffering
• Current medical bills
• Expected future medical costs
• Emotional trauma 

While some rear-end collisions are minor, many result in serious harm to victims. Those injured in Los Angeles rear-end accidents have the right to pursue damages through a civil legal claim.