Rear-end collisions account for approximately 29 percent of all car accidents in the United States, making them the most common type of crash on our roads. While many people assume rear-end accidents are minor fender-benders, even a relatively low-speed rear-end collision can cause serious, long-lasting injuries.

Why Rear-End Collisions Cause Serious Injuries

When your vehicle is struck from behind, your body is subjected to sudden, violent forces it is not designed to withstand. Even at speeds as low as 10 to 15 miles per hour, the impact can generate enough force to cause significant injury to the soft tissues of the neck and back, the spinal discs, and even the brain. Rear-end collisions typically occur without warning, giving occupants no time to brace themselves.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Accidents

Whiplash

Whiplash is the signature injury of rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is suddenly thrown backward and then forward in a whip-like motion, straining or tearing the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the neck. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision, and difficulty concentrating. While many cases resolve within weeks, some victims develop chronic symptoms that persist for years.

Herniated Discs

The force of a rear-end impact can cause intervertebral discs to rupture or herniate. When a disc herniates, soft inner material pushes through the tough outer layer and presses on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Herniated discs often require extensive treatment including physical therapy, injections, and sometimes surgery.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Even when the head does not strike an object, rapid acceleration and deceleration forces can cause the brain to move within the skull, resulting in a concussion or other traumatic brain injury. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes, and sensitivity to light and noise.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Rear-end collisions frequently cause injuries to the thoracic and lumbar spine, including fractures, sprains, and strains. In the most severe cases, the spinal cord itself may be damaged, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis.

Shoulder and Chest Injuries

The seatbelt, while essential for preventing more serious injuries, can cause bruising, strains, and fractures to the chest and shoulder area. Some victims also suffer rotator cuff tears from bracing against the steering wheel.

Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Collision?

In most rear-end collisions, the driver of the rear vehicle is presumed to be at fault based on the duty to maintain a safe following distance. However, this presumption is not absolute. The lead driver may share fault if they:

  • Suddenly reversed without warning
  • Were brake-checking or intentionally stopping short
  • Had broken brake lights
  • Made an abrupt lane change into the path of the rear driver

In North Carolina, where the contributory negligence rule applies, even a small degree of fault could bar recovery. Having an experienced attorney to counter allegations of shared fault is essential.

Delayed Symptoms

One of the most dangerous aspects of rear-end collision injuries is that symptoms frequently do not appear immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or days. Many people walk away feeling fine, only to wake up the next morning with severe pain. Always seek medical attention promptly regardless of how you feel at the scene.

Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you have been injured in a rear-end collision caused by another driver's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact Dr. Ted Injury Law at (800) 555-HURT for a free consultation.