Rear-end accidents were a contributing cause to 27,467 accidents in Connecticut last year. Every driver must maintain a safe distance between cars. Accidents are more likely when cars follow too closely, especially in urban and suburban areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic. Below, our rear-end collision attorney in Connecticut discusses state laws regarding rear-end collisions, their causes, and what to do if you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident.

Causes of Rear-End Collisions

Here are the most common causes of rear-end accidents in Connecticut:

Following Too Closely

Typically, law enforcement cites at-fault drivers of rear-end collisions as following too closely. Connecticut General Statute § 14-240 prohibits drivers from following another vehicle more closely than is “reasonable and prudent” regarding the natural speed of other cars, the flow of traffic, and weather conditions.

Speeding

Speeding eliminates the reaction time needed for a driver to come to a complete stop and avoid a rear-end collision. Rear-end collisions caused by speeding often happen on large highways or rural roads when traffic suddenly stops due to another accident or construction. Speeding drivers also cause rear-end collisions if they travel at a high rate of speed and fail to see traffic lights or stop signs. Another way speeding causes rear-end collisions is when a driver behind another attempts to speed through a yellow light while the driver in front of them stops before the light changes.

Distracted Driving

Texting while driving, talking to passengers, or caring for pets and young children in a car are common causes of traffic accidents in the US. With rear-end collisions, distracted driving can be especially hazardous as drivers are unprepared to stop when the traffic ahead of them does.

Driving Recklessly

Failing to adhere to traffic laws can also cause rear-end accidents. In particular, failing to use proper turn signals is a common cause of rear-end collisions. Connecticut General Statute § 14-242(c) requires drivers to use turn signals for at least 100 feet before turning. If failing to use a turn signal causes an accident, the driver who didn’t signal could be deemed at fault.

Common Injuries of Rear-End Collisions

When you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, seeking medical treatment immediately is important. It may take several days or weeks to feel the full extent of your injuries. Here are the most common injuries we see victims suffer as a rear-end accident attorney in Connecticut:

• Whiplash
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Lesions and cuts from broken glass
• Concussions
• Burns and bruises from airbag deployment
• Soft tissue injuries like strains, sprains, and pulled muscles
• Herniated disks
• Torn meniscus
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck, shoulder, and back pain that interferes with daily activities

Who’s Usually at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?

Connecticut law presumes a driver who hits a car in front of them is at fault in a rear-end accident. Even if the first driver is stopped abruptly or illegally, the second driver must maintain a safe distance between cars. However, there are certain instances where the second driver may be able to prove that the first driver failed to adhere to traffic laws that contributed to the accident. As a modified comparative negligence state, you can collect damages in Connecticut if the other driver is at least 50% at fault for the accident. However, your settlement is reduced by the percentage of fault your actions contributed to the accident.

Are You Always Wrong if You Rear End Someone?

You are responsible for maintaining a safe distance from other cars so you can stop before causing an accident. However, if the first driver failed to adhere to traffic laws, stopped illegally, or didn’t use their turn signal, you can work with your rear-end collision attorney to build a case that the other driver was at fault.

Moore, O’Brien & Foti: Your Connecticut Rear-End Collision Attorneys

Determining fault and getting compensation for your rear-end collision can be challenging. Don’t try to face the at-fault driver’s insurance company by yourself. Contact Moore, O’Brien & Foti, experienced rear-end collision attorneys, to help you get the compensation you deserve to help you recover from your accident and pay for your medical expenses. We understand the nuances of what causes rear-end collisions and will help build a case that shows why another driver’s actions led to the accident. Call our Middlebury, CT office at 203-586-0022 or schedule your free consultation online.