If another vehicle strikes you from behind as you are driving, you may not view this as a serious accident. While inconvenient, a rear-end accident is likely to take place at slower speeds, and it may seem like the impacts of these types of events are not significant. However, you may find that you are experiencing pain and discomfort at increasing levels in the days and weeks following your accident. While they may not seem serious, rear-end accidents can cause serious injuries.
It is important not to underestimate the potentially grave effects of a rear-end accident. You may require medical assistance and ongoing care to address your injuries and the pain you are experiencing. In many cases, these types of accidents are the result of the reckless or negligent actions of the driver in the vehicle that struck your vehicle from behind. Another party may be financially responsible for your pain and suffering.
Injuries you may experience in a rear-end accident
Rear-end accidents often happen because the driver behind is driving too fast or not paying attention to other vehicles on the road. Distraction and aggressive driving may also be to blame for rear-end collisions. Even if speed was not a factor in your crash, you may still experience painful and debilitating injuries that may include the following:
- Seatbelt injuries – In a crash, seatbelts lock, and they can cut into the skin of the person wearing it. Other possible injuries include internal injuries from the lap belt and deep bruising.
- Whiplash – Whiplash is a common car accident injury that results from the whipping motion that the body makes during an impact. It can cause damage to the head and neck.
- Back and spine injuries – These are common car accident injuries that often occur in the impact between vehicles. Ruptured hernias, fractured discs and other back injuries are common.
- Head injuries – Head injuries are common as the force of a rear-end accident can move a person’s head forward violently, causing it to hit the steering wheel or other hard surface in the car.
If you are suffering after a rear-end accident, you may have legal options available to you. Through the Texas civil justice system, it may be possible to hold the responsible parties accountable for your pain and suffering. As soon as possible after this type of motor vehicle accident, you may find it helpful to seek an assessment of your accident case.