Rear-End Collisions Attorney Serving Los Angeles, CA

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident on California’s busy roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly one-third of all motor vehicle crashes in the United States are rear-end collisions. While they might seem like “minor fender benders” to people who have never been hit from behind with force, the reality is that even a low-speed rear-end crash can lead to serious injuries, significant vehicle damage, and costly disputes with insurance companies.

At Kosnett Law Firm, our Los Angeles personal injury attorneys know how suddenly a rear-end crash can upend your life. This article breaks down how these crashes happen, the injuries they can cause, what steps to take afterward, and how an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Rear-End Collisions Happen in Los Angeles

A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle strikes the back of another. While these crashes can happen in any setting, they are especially common on congested urban streets, stop-and-go freeways, and intersections where traffic comes to sudden stops. Given those settings, it is plain to see why these kinds of accidents are so common in Los Angeles.

But the amount of traffic alone doesn’t account for the frequency and severity of rear-end crashes. These accidents don’t just “happen.” They occur because of a driver’s negligence, and it’s nearly always the trailing driver who is at fault. Some of the leading causes of rear-end collisions include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, reading, or simply not paying attention to the road is a major factor. A driver who glances at their phone for even a second to read an incoming text or notification can fail to notice stopped traffic ahead.

• Following Too Closely: Also known as “tailgating,” this aggressive driving habit leaves little room for error if the vehicle in front must stop suddenly.

• Speeding: Driving too fast reduces the time and distance needed to react safely. The faster a vehicle is moving, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop.

• Weather and Road Conditions: Rain, fog, or debris can make it harder for drivers to maintain control or judge safe following distances. Drivers are required by law to adjust their speed to account for current conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.

• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use slows reaction times and affects judgment, which can easily lead to a rear-end crash.

• Sudden Stops: Sometimes, the driver in front may stop unexpectedly, leaving the driver behind with little chance to react. If they did so without reason, they may be at least partially at fault in causing the crash.

While the trailing driver is usually presumed to be at fault in a rear-end collision, there are cases where the front driver’s actions,  such as suddenly slamming on the brakes for no reason or out of road rage or having broken brake lights, may contribute to or cause the crash. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the facts to determine fault.

Common Injuries After a Rear-End Crash

Because rear-end collisions often happen at lower speeds, people sometimes assume that the injuries will be minor. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Even a seemingly “small” impact can transmit sudden forces through the body, leading to significant pain and long-term complications.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash: Probably the best-known injury in rear-end crashes, whiplash occurs when the head is violently jerked back and forth. This can damage muscles, ligaments, and soft tissues in the neck and upper back.

• Back Injuries: Herniated discs, sprains, and spinal misalignments are common due to the sudden impact.

• Head Injuries: If a driver or passenger’s head strikes the headrest, steering wheel, or window, they may suffer a concussion or traumatic brain injury.

• Facial Injuries: Broken glass or airbag deployment can cause cuts, bruises, or fractures.

• Seatbelt and Airbag Injuries: While they save lives, seatbelts and airbags can also cause bruising or internal injuries when they deploy with force.

Some injuries, like whiplash or mild traumatic brain injuries, don’t always show immediate symptoms. Pain and stiffness may not appear until hours or even days after the crash. That’s why it’s critical to see a doctor as soon as possible to protect your health and to document your injuries for any future claim.

Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision in LA

The moments after a rear-end collision can be disorienting and stressful. Knowing what to do can help protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek fair compensation.

Here are some essential steps to take after a rear-end crash:

1. Check for Injuries: If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Don’t move an injured person unless necessary for safety.
2. Move to Safety: If it’s safe and possible, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further collisions.
3. Call the Police: Even for minor crashes, it’s wise to have an official accident report. This can be vital evidence later.
4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance details, and vehicle information.
5. Gather Evidence: Take photos of vehicle damage, the crash scene, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses, get their contact information.
6. Seek Medical Attention: Get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel fine at first.
7. Report the Accident to Your Insurance: Notify your insurer promptly, but avoid giving detailed statements or accepting blame before speaking with a lawyer.
8. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Before dealing with the other driver’s insurance company, consult an attorney who can help protect your rights.

Challenges With Insurance Companies

Many people assume that since the other driver rear-ended them, the insurance claim will be straightforward. But insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. They may argue that your injuries are less severe than you claim, that your pain is pre-existing, or that you shared some blame for stopping too suddenly.

For crashes in Los Angeles, California’s “comparative negligence” rule means your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault. Insurers will often exploit this rule and place the blame on you despite what the facts show. This is why having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney by your side can make a big difference. Your lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with adjusters, and, if necessary, fight for you in court to pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Recoverable Damages After a Rear-End Collision in Los Angeles

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in Los Angeles due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. The compensation available depends on the specifics of your case but frequently includes legal damages such as the following:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages if you miss work for treatment and recovery
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous job due to disability or impairment
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
• Costs for rehabilitation or long-term care

Every accident is unique, and the value of your claim depends on the nature and extent of your injuries, the clarity of fault, and the insurance policies involved.

How Kosnett Law Firm Can Help

At Kosnett Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with physical injuries, lost income, and uncooperative insurance companies. Our experienced Los Angeles car accident personal injury lawyers are dedicated to standing up for crash victims and ensuring they get the care and compensation they need to move forward.

When you hire us, we can:

• Thoroughly investigate the accident and gather critical evidence
• Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Connect you with trusted medical providers
• Calculate the full value of your claim
• Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to trial if needed

We handle rear-end collision cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win compensation for you. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your options, and fight for your best outcome every step of the way.

Talk to a Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Lawyer Today

A rear-end collision can leave you facing more than just a dented bumper — it can disrupt your health, your work, and your finances. If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end crash caused by someone else’s negligence in Los Angeles, don’t try to handle it alone.

Reach out to the Kosnett Law Firm today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our dedicated team help you get back on your feet and hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today to get started.