Maryland Rear-End Car Accidents

The most common type of car accident is when one car hits another from behind. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that these types of collisions account for more than 30% of all reported crashes. Many occur at low-speeds, and those involved often think they can drive away without worrying. But if you are in a rear-end accident, you should probably be concerned about what happened.
Rear-end crashes can be serious -- they make up almost 10% of deaths in two-vehicle accidents. Even a rear-end accident that appears minor at first can result in severe soft-tissue injuries.

Whiplash is an example of a soft tissue injury you might receive in a rear-end car accident. It can cause damage to vertebrae in the neck, as well as long-term pain. It can also increase likelihood of future injury. Even a low-speed crash can bend your neck in harmful ways. This may mean the stretching of nerves, ligaments, tendons, or muscles in that area of the body. It can even mean permanent neck strain and concussive brain injury.

According to the latest research, women are 1.8 to 3 times more likely to receive chronic whiplash injuries in rear-end accidents. Women also have a higher likelihood of being struck than to strike a car in a rear-end accident. Risk of injury is also increased by being in the driver's seat - this actually doubles your risk of whiplash. Finally, drivers more than sixty-five are more likely to receive serious injuries in a rear-end crash.

Many rear-end accident victims are not aware of it, but car design has a great deal to do with the types of injuries - if any - that are received in a crash. For instance, head rests are shown to be a significant factor in whiplash injuries. This is because while some vehicles boast well-designed headrests, others do not. The latter types increased your risk of serious whiplash injuries - even if the accident occurred that a low speed.
As if poorly-designed cars weren't enough to be concerned with, you may encounter insurance problems with your rear-end accident. Certain insurances view these crashes as "minor;" as a result, they may refuse to pay damages for any injuries received. Insurance adjustors often gauge the level of harm suffered by the victim by the extent of damage to the vehicle.

Our Maryland car accident attorneys know that this is an unacceptable way to judge the amount of compensation you deserve. Contact our firm to determine how to get the most for your injuries.

If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident, fill out our online form, or call for a consultation. We want to work for compensation on your behalf. Your first meeting with us is free of charge.