Rear-end accidents happen frequently on San Antonio’s busy streets, like Bandera Road & Loop 410. They’re often caused by tailgating, driving while distracted, driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, speeding, or reckless driving.
When traffic gets backed up on Interstate 10, a speeding driver could cause a rear-end accident. A distracted driver could cause a rear-end wreck at the intersection of Randolph Boulevard and Weirdner Road.
Whatever the cause may be, the driver who crashes into a vehicle in front of them is almost always at fault. While most rear-end accidents happen at low speeds, severe, life-altering injuries can happen at any speed. If you were injured in a rear-end accident, you shouldn’t have to suffer because of someone else’s negligence.
That’s why you need to contact an experienced San Antonio car accident attorney at Tracey Fox & Walters.
What Is a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end collision happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents are frequent in San Antonio, especially during rush hour or when traffic slows unexpectedly. While some rear-end crashes are minor, others can cause serious injuries and long-term consequences. No matter the speed, the impact can throw your body forward and backward, leading to pain and medical complications.
Common Causes of Rear-End Crashes in San Antonio
Rear-end accidents in San Antonio are often caused by:
- Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or using a phone while driving reduces reaction time.
- Tailgating: Following too closely leaves little room to stop safely.
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit increases the risk of losing control.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and reaction time.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive maneuvers can lead to sudden stops and collisions.
These factors make San Antonio’s roads dangerous, especially during peak traffic hours. If you’ve been hurt because someone else was driving carelessly, you have the right to seek compensation.
Distracted Driving and Tailgating
Distracted driving is a leading cause of rear-end collisions in San Antonio. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in the United States in 2022, with texting and phone use being among the most common distractions.
The Texas Department of Transportation reports that distracted driving contributes to thousands of crashes each year, many of which are rear-end collisions on busy roads like Loop 410 and Bandera Road.
Tailgating, or following too closely, is another major factor. Drivers who tailgate often have little time to react when traffic slows, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end crash. Studies show that tailgating is a contributing factor in nearly one-third of all rear-end accidents.
Together, distracted driving and tailgating create a dangerous combination that puts San Antonio drivers at risk every day. If you’ve been injured because someone else was distracted or following too closely, you have legal options to pursue compensation for your losses.
Injuries That Commonly Occur in Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end collisions can cause a range of injuries, from mild discomfort to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash: The sudden jolt can cause neck and spine damage, with symptoms sometimes appearing days or weeks later.
- Concussions: Head injuries may result from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard.
- Spinal injuries: The force of impact can damage vertebrae or discs.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, and ribs are often affected.
- Back and shoulder pain: These injuries can limit mobility and affect daily activities.
Even if you feel fine right after the accident, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. Left untreated, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, permanent disability, or ongoing medical expenses.
Whiplash, Concussions, and Spinal Injuries
One common injury sustained in a rear-end collision is whiplash. The accident victim’s head jerks forward and backward in a rapid motion, causing damage to the neck and spine. Symptoms may not be immediately present, but if the injury is left untreated, whiplash can cause more future suffering and permanent damage.
At high impact, more severe injuries such as brain injuries and broken bones can occur. Recovery could take months or even years, causing medical bills and loss of wages to wreak havoc on your life.
Who Is At Fault in a Rear-End Accident in Texas?
In most cases, the driver who hits the vehicle in front is considered at fault. Texas law presumes that the following driver should maintain a safe distance and be prepared to stop if traffic slows. However, there are exceptions. For example, if the vehicle in front suddenly reverses or if there are other unusual circumstances, fault may be shared or disputed. Insurance companies may try to shift blame, but our attorneys at Tracey Fox & Walters will investigate every detail to ensure you’re not unfairly held responsible. We gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to build a strong case for your claim.
Proving Negligence and Liability in Texas
Establishing negligence is key to your case. Our team will gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos, to prove the other driver’s liability.
Medical Bills, Lost Wages, and Pain & Suffering
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills: This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle.
- Future medical costs: If you need ongoing treatment, future expenses may be included.
Insurance companies often try to downplay injuries and offer low settlements. Our personal injury attorneys at Tracey Fox & Walters will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve, not just a quick payout that doesn’t cover your losses.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision
If you’ve been in a rear-end accident, take these steps:
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Document your injuries and keep all medical records.
- Report the accident to the police.
- Contact Tracey Fox & Walters to begin building your case.
How a San Antonio Rear-End Accident Attorney Can Help
After you’ve sustained an injury from a rear-end collision, you can’t always count on insurance companies to cover your losses.
At most, you may receive a small settlement. But such a settlement is never enough to cover the accumulating medical bills and loss of wages. That’s why you need San Antonio car accident lawyers from Tracey Fox & Walters on your side. Our lawyers deliver the results you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Contact our law firm online or call our San Antonio office today and schedule your free case evaluation. We want to help you.
