Rear-end accidents are a common type of car wreck. In a brief second of inattention, you or someone else could be impacted by a rear-end accident. That moment may be enough to qualify as negligence. In rear-impact collisions, the back vehicle is often responsible because they are following too closely, causing the wreck. Yet in some cases, it is the leading vehicle’s fault.
If you have been hurt in a rear-impact collision, you may be entitled to compensation. The Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. can provide information on rear-end car accidents in Aurora. Our dedicated car accident attorneys examine the circumstances of the wreck to help determine who is responsible and sue the at-fault parties.
Rear-End Auto Accidents
Rear-end collisions range from fender benders to total losses but the speed of both vehicles helps determine the severity of the wreck. A collision can result in cars leaving their lanes and involving other people in the accident.
Tailgating, or driving too closely behind, is one of the leading causes of rear-impact collisions. A safe following distance is two seconds between the end of the lead vehicle and the front of the following. Drivers should increase this distance if visibility, weather conditions, or other factors impact their ability to stop. Another consideration to avoid rear-end accidents in Aurora is that heavier vehicles may also need to increase their following length because they take longer to stop.
If you leave an additional distance between you and the car in front of you, another driver may move into that space. If that person stops abruptly, it can lead to a collision. Other factors contributing to the likelihood of a rear-end wreck include broken taillights, slamming on the brakes, and the front car moving in reverse. It is not unheard of that both parties may claim that the other is at fault and could share responsibility. While exceptions exist, the factfinder often looks at which person had the last opportunity to avoid the crash. That is often the driver of the car in the back.
Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
Many rear-impact crashes occur at low speeds, resulting in minor property damage and no injuries. However, that does not mean that these incidents are risk-free. Rear-end wrecks can lead to broken bones, lacerations, contusions, and more.
Medical treatment after any car accident, especially a rear-impact collision, is essential. These wrecks can damage the spine, internal organs, or brain, and those injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen if not treated promptly.
Comparative Negligence
Illinois Statutes Chapter 735. Civil Procedure § 5/2-1116 provides that an injured party can recover compensation if they are less than 50 percent responsible for the damage. Even if a person contributed to an accident, they may still be entitled to recovery. The amount of their damage award is proportional to the other party’s share of the responsibility.
It is important that injured people do not assume fault in a rear-end wreck in Aurora. Instead, allow the facts of the case to help demonstrate fault, including with evidence such as:
- Statements from the drivers of both cars
- Photos or videos from the scene
- The damage to the vehicles
- Witness statements
It is important for a lawyer to examine the entirety of the case before determining how fault should be allocated.
Learn More About Aurora Rear-End Collisions with the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd.
While driving in Aurora may seem less hectic than driving in Chicago, distracted commuters can make driving especially hazardous. All it takes is a moment’s inattention to lead to a rear-impact collision. If you have been injured in one of these wrecks, you need to seek out legal advice as soon as possible. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about your rights following rear-end car accidents in Aurora.