Rear-End Car Accidents Cause Serious Injuries Including Whiplash

Naperville, Illinois Personal Injury Attorneys

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents in Illinois. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end crashes account for nearly 29% of all traffic accidents in the United States. These accidents often occur at intersections, in heavy traffic, or on highways, and can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the impact these accidents have on victims and work diligently to help them recover compensation for their injuries.

What Causes Rear-End Collisions?

Rear-end collisions typically occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle. While they can sometimes be minor, rear-end crashes can lead to severe injuries depending on the speed and circumstances of the crash. Common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reports that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of rear-end collisions, contributing to thousands of accidents each year.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating is a major factor in rear-end collisions. When a driver follows too closely, they don’t have enough time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time, increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions. Speeding contributes to 33% of all traffic fatalities nationwide.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Wet or icy roads can increase stopping distances, making it more difficult for drivers to avoid rear-end collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to cause rear-end crashes due to delayed reaction times and impaired judgment.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions

Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can cause significant injuries. According to NHTSA, rear-end collisions are a leading cause of whiplash injuries, which can have long-lasting effects. Other common injuries include:

• Whiplash: One of the most frequent injuries in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing strain or tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
• Spinal Injuries: The sudden force of a rear-end collision can compress the spine, leading to herniated discs, fractures, or other serious spinal injuries.
• Head and Brain Injuries: In more severe collisions, occupants may hit their heads on the steering wheel or dashboard, resulting in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
• Broken Bones: Fractures can occur in more serious rear-end collisions, especially in the arms, wrists, or ribs as passengers brace for impact.
• Injuries to Muscles, Tendons, and Ligaments: Heavy-impact rear-end collisions can cause severe damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to chronic pain and long-term rehabilitation.

Case Results: Successful Recoveries for Rear-End Collision Victims

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have successfully secured settlements for numerous clients injured in rear-end collisions:

• $718,000 Settlement: Our firm secured a $718,000 settlement for a man and woman who suffered severe injuries, including shoulder injuries resulting in multiple surgeries, in a heavy-impact rear-end collision on I-88 in Naperville. The force of the collision caused extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
• $737,000 Settlement: We also recovered $737,000 for a man who suffered a significant shoulder injury after being rear-ended. The injury required surgery and extensive rehabilitation, highlighting the serious consequences of rear-end collisions.

Liability in Illinois Rear-End Collisions

In most rear-end collisions, the driver of the vehicle that strikes the car in front is considered at fault. Illinois law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance and exercise caution to avoid causing accidents. However, there are exceptions where the lead vehicle may share some responsibility, such as:

• Sudden Stops Without Warning: If the driver of the lead vehicle slams on their brakes without warning or justification, they may be held partially liable.
• Brake Failure or Mechanical Issues: If a rear-end collision occurs due to brake failure or a mechanical issue, the driver or the vehicle manufacturer could be held responsible.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we investigate all factors contributing to rear-end collisions to ensure that the appropriate parties are held accountable.

Compensation for Rear-End Collision Victims

If you have been injured in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Including emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work and potential loss of future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.

How to Prevent Rear-End Collisions

While rear-end collisions are common, many are preventable. According to IDOT, drivers should maintain a safe following distance, avoid distractions, and drive at a speed appropriate for the road conditions to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. Other ways to reduce the risk include:

• Maintaining a Safe Following Distance: Always keep enough space between your car and the vehicle in front of you to stop safely.
• Avoiding Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid using your phone or other devices while driving.
• Adhering to Speed Limits: Follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on traffic and road conditions.
• Driving Defensively: Anticipate the actions of other drivers, especially in heavy traffic or at intersections.

Legal Help After a Rear-End Collision

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are dedicated to helping victims of rear-end collisions recover the compensation they deserve. Whether your injuries are minor or severe, our experienced Illinois car accident attorneys will fight to ensure that negligent drivers are held accountable. We have recovered millions of dollars in settlements for victims of rear-end collisions and will work tirelessly to achieve justice for you.

“Rear-end collisions can result in serious injuries, even when they seem minor at first. Our firm has recovered millions for rear-end collision victims, and we are committed to helping victims navigate the legal process and recover the compensation they need to heal and move forward.” – John J. Malm

Contact the Illinois Car Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one have been injured in a rear-end collision, contact John J. Malm & Associates today for a free consultation. Our experienced Illinois personal injury attorneys in Naperville and St. Charles are here to help you get the compensation you deserve.