Why Are Rear-End Accidents So Common in GA?
Based on statistics from the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA), 1,457,155 rear-end crashes occurred in 2020. Rear-end accidents made up 27.8% of all crashes in the United States, making it the most common type of motor vehicle accident that year. And contrary to popular belief, these crashes can be serious and deadly, as evidenced by the 417,062 people that were injured and 2,428 people that were killed in rear-end crashes across the country in 2020. But why are rear-end accidents so common in the U.S. and Georgia?
Reasons Why Rear-End Accidents Are Common in Georgia
Driver negligence is the most common cause of rear-end crashes, which may include the following negligent driving practices:
- The rear driver was distracted and not focused on driving, so when the lead driver stopped, the rear driver crashed into them.
- Tailgating, in which the rear driver failed to keep a reasonably safe distance from the vehicle they were following.
- Driving over the posted speed limits
- Road rage and aggressive driving
- Drowsy or fatigued driving
- Driving while drunk or high on drugs
In some situations, inclement weather, traffic, poor road conditions, or mechanical issues could cause or contribute to a rear-end collision:
- If the lead driver had defective brake lights and suddenly braked, the rear driver could crash into them.
- During inclement weather, like heavy rain, for example, a negligent driver who is driving too fast for the slippery road or traffic conditions or fails to use their wipers, could easily rear-end another vehicle.
- If the roadway has defects, such as huge potholes or bumpy surfaces, drivers may fail to stop correctly and avoid a crash.
Determining Fault for Rear-End Crashes
While most rear-end crashes result from a negligent rear driver’s actions, this isn’t always true. In some instances, the leading driver may have stopped in an area where they shouldn’t have stopped, drove their car in reverse against the flow of traffic, or could have been driving below the posted speed limit. To prove fault in a rear-end crash, your Georgia car accident lawyer will examine:
- Traffic violations – Determine whether either party violated any traffic laws.
- The position and speed of all vehicles involved – Determining these factors can help figure out which party caused the rear-end crash.
- Physical evidence – Collecting evidence like police reports and pictures and videos of the crash, among others.
- Witness testimonies regarding the crash.
Discuss Your Case With Our Seasoned Georgia Car Accident Lawyers Today
Did you get hurt in a rear-end accident in GA? The seasoned Georgia car accident lawyers of Banks, Stubbs & McFarland can provide you with legal advice about your case. Some rear-end crashes can be hard to sort out, particularly if they involve multiple parties. Your lawyer will evaluate the facts of your case, file your claim on time, identify all the losses you incurred in the crash, negotiate with the insurers of the at-fault parties, and represent you in court if needed.
To set up a complimentary case review with our Georgia car accident lawyer, please call 770-887-1209 or send us a message online today.