Miami Rear-End Collision Car Accident Lawyers

What is a rear-end collision?

Rear-end crashes occur when one vehicle collides with the back of another one. These types of accidents can happen at slow speeds – like in bumper-to-bumper traffic – or at high speeds, like on the highway. Either way, these accidents can cause serious injuries and property damage.

Rear-end accidents often occur when the front driver is stopped or slowing down, and the driver behind them isn’t paying attention, is not following at a safe distance, or cannot stop in time.

Some people think of rear-end crashes as minor fender benders, but that is not always the case. Even crashes that at first seem minor can lead to long-term neck, back, or head injuries.

What are the common causes of rear-end collisions in Miami?

The city of Miami is known for its busy streets, stop-and-go traffic, and distracted drivers. It comes as no surprise that rear-end collisions are common. Some of the top causes of these accidents include the following:

• Distracted driving is the most common reason behind most rear-end crashes. When a driver is texting, eating, or using their GPS, they are not focused fully on the road, and that is when accidents happen.
• Following too closely, or tailgating, is dangerous. If the car in front needs to suddenly stop, there is typically not enough time or space for the driver in the back to avoid a crash.
• The faster a car is going, the more difficult it is to stop. Speeding drivers are often unable to react quickly enough when traffic suddenly slows down.
• Rain is a part of life here in Miami. However, wet roads can reduce traction, causing drivers to slide and rear-end the car in front of them.
• Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, both of which can lead to dangerous rear-end collisions.
• Sometimes the driver in front has to stop quickly due to traffic, a pedestrian, or debris in the road. If the person behind is not paying enough attention, a crash can occur within seconds.

What are some common injuries from Miami rear-end crashes?

Rear-end collisions can cause a wide range of injuries and damage. Some people may simply walk away a little sore, while others deal with chronic pain or permanent damage. Common injuries from rear-end collisions include:

• Whiplash, which is a neck injury caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head. This is one of the most common injuries in rear-end crashes.
• Herniated discs, muscle strains, and spinal injuries can all result from the force of impact.
• If your head hits the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, you could suffer a concussion or other traumatic brain injury.
• Broken bones, cuts, and bruises can happen if airbags deploy or glass shatters within the vehicle.
• The force of the crash can break your arms, wrists, or ribs.
• Soft tissue damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.

Remember, even if you do not feel injured at the moment, it is important to get prompt medical attention. Some injuries can take hours or even days to appear.

Who is at fault in a Miami rear-end collision?

Typically, a driver who hits you from behind is at fault for your car accident. Florida law requires drivers to leave enough space between vehicles so they can stop safely. If a driver fails to do this, they can be considered negligent.

However, every accident is different. Sometimes the front driver will share blame – for example, if they cut someone off or stopped suddenly for no reason. In other cases, a third party could be responsible, like in the event that faulty brakes caused the crash.

At Hickey Law Firm, we thoroughly investigate your crash to determine exactly what happened and who should be held liable. We look at things like:

• Police reports
• Crash scene photographs
• Surveillance or traffic camera footage
• Witness statements
• Vehicle damage reports
• Cell phone records (in cases involving distracted driving)

We leave no stone unturned when building your case.

Can passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists file a claim for a rear-end collision?

Yes. Rear-end accidents do not only affect drivers. If you were injured as a passenger, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, you also have the right to seek compensation.

Passengers can typically file claims against the driver of the car they were in or the driver who hit them. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are especially vulnerable in these types of crashes and often suffer serious injuries. Hickey Law Firm is proud to represent all accident victims, no matter how the crash happened. If someone else’s negligence caused you harm, we are here to help.

What is the value of my Miami rear-end crash claim?

If you or a loved one were injured in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to financial compensation for:

• Your medical bills, including ER visits, doctor appointments, surgeries, rehab, prescriptions, and more.
• Lost wages, if you were forced to miss work because of your injuries.
• Loss of earning capacity, if you cannot return to work or have to switch to a lower-paying job.
• Pain and suffering, which is your physical pain and emotional distress.
• Property damage, which is the cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement, which is compensation for the long-term effects of your injuries.

In tragic cases where a loved one is killed in a Miami rear-end collision, our attorneys can help your family file a wrongful death claim.