Rear-end accidents are common both in Massachusetts and across the United States. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a rear-end collision that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your harm. At The Law Offices of Barry Feinstein & Affiliates P.C. , our diligent Massachusetts car accident attorneys can meticulously examine the facts of your case and help you determine your next steps.
A rear-end collision takes place when one vehicle crashes into the vehicle in front of it. Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of motor vehicle accidents in the United States. Data from the National Highway Safety Administration reveal that there are about 2.5 million rear-end collisions each year. Essentially, of all of the auto accidents in the country, approximately 28 percent are rear-end collisions. Rear-end collisions are also extremely common in Massachusetts. In fact, according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, rear-end collisions were the most common types of collisions in the state in both 2012 and 2013. In 2012, there were 1,289 rear-end accidents, whereas in 2013, there were 1,461.
In many cases, the risk of serious injury or fatal injury depends on the size of the vehicles. Being struck from behind by a significantly larger vehicle can have devastating consequences for the driver and passengers of the smaller car. On the other hand, a car hitting the back of a much larger vehicle, such as a truck, could result in a dangerous underride accident.
In rear-end collision cases, the driver in the back is generally considered to be at fault for the accident. This is because the driver has a duty to drive responsibly and maintain a safe braking distance at all times. However, in some cases, the driver of the front car may be at fault for the accident for the following reasons:
- The front driver made an unsafe lane change;
- The front driver’s brake lights did not work;
- The front driver was stopped but failed to turn on hazards;
- The front driver reversed quickly or unsafely.
Liability for rear-end accidents is ultimately determined by the principle of negligence. If a party’s negligence caused the accident, that party will be liable for any resulting harm. Negligence takes place when a person causes an injury or death by failing to use reasonable care behind the wheel, thereby causing an accident and injuries. Reasonable care is defined as how a prudent person would have acted in the same situation. For example, if you were rear-ended by a driver who was on their cell phone and not paying attention to the road, you will likely be able to hold that driver accountable through a negligence claim.
At The Law Offices of Barry Feinstein & Affiliates P.C. , our seasoned Massachusetts car accident attorneys are prepared to fight for the full amount that you are owed for your injuries in a rear-end collision that was caused by someone else’s negligence. With years of experience, we understand how to navigate these complex claims. To learn more about your legal rights and options, do not hesitate to call us at 1-800-262-9200 or contact us through our website.
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