Rear-end crashes are among the most common types of Michigan car accidents. In 2020, more than 53,000 rear-end accidents occurred on Michigan roads. Seventy-eight people died and more than 10,700 were hurt in these crashes.
Accordingly, we encourage all Michigan motorists to learn how these crashes occur, what to do after a rear-end wreck, and how to protect your legal rights if you’re hurt or your loved one is killed.
Who’s at Fault for Rear-End Car Accidents?
Rear-end crashes occur when a driver crashes into the back of the vehicle in front of them. Some common causes of rear-end wrecks include:
- Speeding. Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road or weather conditions may be unable to stop in time to prevent a rear-end crash.
- Tailgating. Following a vehicle too closely is a common cause of rear-end wrecks. A driver who is in a hurry, experiencing road rage, or driving aggressively may fail to leave enough room between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them.
- Distracted driving. Distracted drivers may not notice when the driver in front of them slows down or applies the brakes and may not have enough time to stop before hitting the other vehicle.
- Drunk driving. Intoxicated drivers or drivers under the influence of drugs may have slower reflexes and may drive erratically. They may be unable to stop before hitting the vehicle in front of them.
- Drowsy driving. Tired drivers may fall asleep at the wheel or make mistakes that cause them to hit the car in front of them.
Typically, the driver in the back is liable for the accident. However, a full investigation into the cause of your crash may be necessary.
Rear-End Car Crash Injuries
The extent of your injuries depends on many things, such as the speed both vehicles were traveling, your overall health, and the angle at which the vehicles collided. Some possible injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash
- Airbag injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries, such as organ damage
A health care professional will diagnose your injuries and recommend treatment.
What to Do After a Rear-End Car Accident
You may begin protecting your recovery immediately after an accident by:
- Calling the police. The police will come to investigate the crash and make sure that everyone gets emergency medical help.
- Taking photos. Photos of the vehicles and the area around the crash may provide helpful evidence in your car accident case.
- Getting witness names and contact information. Witnesses may be able to provide essential information about why the crash happened.
- Getting medical attention. Immediate medical attention can help you keep your injuries from worsening, minimize your pain, heal, and create a record about how the crash caused your injuries.
- Following your doctor’s treatment plan. You don’t want to risk making your injuries worse or losing out on compensation for failure to follow your doctor’s orders.
- Watching what you say to insurance adjusters. Insurance adjusters are looking for reasons to pay you as little as possible for your accident injuries. Accordingly, they may misinterpret what you say and use it against you. Your lawyer will handle insurance company communications if an attorney represents you.
- Contacting a car accident lawyer. Your lawyer can advise you of your rights and help you secure the recovery you deserve.
These steps may help you protect your fair accident recovery, which may include compensation for past, current, and future:
- Medical costs. Your healthcare costs may include ambulance transportation, hospitalizations, surgeries, medications, doctors’ appointments, physical therapy, occupational therapy, other rehabilitation therapies, and assistive medical devices.
- Lost income. If you work fewer hours, work a lower-paying job because of your accident injuries, or can’t work at all, then you may be able to recover for lost wages, raises, bonuses, and benefits, as well as applicable self-employment income.
- Out-of-pocket expenses. These expenses include but aren’t limited to property damage, household help, and transportation costs.
- Pain and suffering. You may be financially compensated for your physical pain and emotional suffering.
Our experienced Bloomfield Hills personal injury attorneys are here to help you navigate the often complicated and stressful times after a Michigan car crash. We invite you to call us, text us, or complete our online contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation today.