Being involved in a rear-end collision can be shocking and upsetting. In many cases, victims of rear-end collisions are not aware of the full extent of their injuries until hours or even days after a car accident occurs. Neck and back injuries are some of the most common injuries associated with rear-end collisions. The damage to your nerves and soft tissue in a whiplash type of injury can cause long-term problems. You will need an experienced car accident lawyer on your side to advocate for you to receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in the United States. Every year over 2.5 million people are involved in rear-end collisions, accounting for approximately 29% of all car accidents. As with many other types of car accidents, distracted driving is a common cause of rear-end collisions. Other common causes of rear-end collisions include the following:
- Driving over the speed limit
- Driving too fast in inclement weather
- Talking on the phone, texting, or watching videos while driving
- Failing to leave enough space between vehicles
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while drowsy
- Not obeying traffic signs or traffic lights
Neck and Back Injuries are Common in Rear-End Collisions
Neck and back injuries, including whiplash, are the most common types of injuries in rear-end collisions. When a driver strikes a car in front, the other driver’s neck will snap forward quickly and then snap back. The force placed on one’s neck during a rear-end collision can cause torn ligaments and tissue, resulting in pain and inflammation. While some neck injuries are minor and heal within a week or two, other whiplash injuries can last months or even years.
Those who have suffered neck or back injuries in a rear-end collision often need extensive physical therapy, medical treatment, and neck or back surgery in severe cases. In severe cases, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to work. Symptoms of whiplash include the following:
- Pain in one’s neck that becomes more severe when moving your neck
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Headaches that begin near your neck or the back of your skull
- Shoulder tenderness or pain
- Inability to move the neck
- Difficulty with concentration or memory
- Ringing in the ears or blurred vision
Other injuries caused by rear-end collisions include:
- Herniated discs: the force of a rear-end collision can cause a herniated disc to bulge out of place, causing pain and loss of movement
- Lumbar or thoracic vertebrae fractures: back fractures in the middle or lower spine
- Back strain or sprain caused by the force of the rear-end accident
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or your loved one have been involved in a rear-end collision, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. Contact Griggs Injury Law today to schedule your free initial consultation.
