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Rear End Collisions

Rear end collisions occur when one motor vehicle operator collides into the back end of another vehicle. These accidents are particularly dangerous because they can occur in any situation in which two vehicles are traveling in the same direction. In many situations, rear end collisions can result in serious injuries. As a result, it is important that any person who is involved in a rear-end collision immediately obtain the assistance of skilled legal counsel.

Determining Liability in Rear End Collisions

In a large number of rear end collisions, a motor vehicle operator who is operating the vehicle that is traveling behind the first vehicle is declared responsible for the accident. This is because the state of Washington has laws that require motor vehicle operators to travel a safe distance behind other motor vehicle drivers. While smaller vehicles should follow at least a three- to four-vehicle length behind other vehicles, large vehicles should follow behind at an even greater distance because they have more difficulty stopping.

Common Causes of Rear End Collisions

There are a variety of factors that can cause rear-end collisions. Some of the most common include the following:

  • Distracted Driving: Rear end collisions are just one of the many types of accidents that can be caused by distracted driving. In some cases, a driver fails to notice the vehicle ahead of him or her in time, which causes the collision.
  • Rapid Acceleration by the Driver Traveling Behind: If a motor vehicle driver speeds up more quickly than the motor vehicle operator in front, rear end collisions can occur.
  • Tailgating: When a driver follows the vehicle that is traveling ahead of him or her too closely, it is called tailgaiting. Drivers who are tailgating are often unable to to stop in time if the vehicle in front brakes suddenly.

Injuries Caused by Rear End Collisions

There are numerous types of injuries that can result from rear end collisions. Whiplash is very common. Another common type of injury involves motor vehicle occupants who are thrown into their airbags. In some situations, fatalities can even occur if a person strikes the car's interior as the result of an accident.

Advice on Avoiding Rear End Collisions

Some of the strategies that a person can employ to avoid being injured in a rear end collision include the following:

  • Maintain an adequate distance from other vehicles.
  • Increase the distance between you and other vehicles when necessary, including in situations involving adverse weather conditions and in the dark.
  • If you are being tailgated by another vehicle, make sure that you have sufficient room to avoid braking suddenly.
  • It is important to let other drivers know your intentions while traveling on the road and avoid sudden changes that can result in accidents.

Obtain the Services of a Rear End Collision Lawyer

If you or a loved one is harmed in a rear end collision, it is important to contact a seasoned accident attorney who can help with your case. Speak with an attorney at West Law Office today.

(image courtesy of Dean Van Beers) http://

West Law Office - Russell West Attorney

Spokane Attorney Russell West practice areas include: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury, Motorcycle Accidents, Slip and Falls, DUIs, DOL Hearings, Criminal Traffic, Expungement/Vacating Records, and Insurance Bad Faith

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