One minute you may be driving to your intended destination, and in the next moment, you could feel the impact of something large and heavy striking your vehicle from behind. A rear-end accident is difficult to see coming as you are not always able to accurately see what the driver behind you is doing. These types of accidents are surprising, and they can result in serious harm to your personal property and your body.
A rear-end accident may not seem like a significant type of accident, especially if it happened while the vehicle was traveling at a low rate of speed at the time. However, the movement your body will make during this type of impact could leave you with more serious injuries than you imagined. It is in your interests to understand what you should do after an accident to protect your well-being, seek the recovery you deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable for your pain and suffering.
Common rear-end accident injuries
The severity of your rear-end accident injuries may depend on several factors, including how fast the vehicle was traveling at the time it struck your vehicle. Every rear-end accident is different, but some of the most common injuries from these events include:
- Seat-belt injuries – When a seatbelt locks upon impact, it can cut your skin or leave you with bruises. Sometimes seatbelts can cause even more damage to the chest or neck.
- Whiplash – This injury is the result of the head snapping back and forth during an impact with another vehicle.
- Back and spine injuries – These injuries are common in rear-end accidents, sometimes leading to damage that results in permanent disabilities and limitations.
- Head injuries – When the head snaps forward in the impact of a rear-end accident, the head can strike the steering wheel or other hard surface in the car.
The extent of your injuries may not be immediately apparent. You may find that your pain and symptoms continue to worsen in the days and weeks after the accident, a sign that you could have a serious injury that requires treatment.
Who is responsible?
An assessment of your case will reveal who is responsible for the rear-end accident that left you injured. If you can prove that the negligent or reckless actions of another student caused your suffering, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a claim in the Arizona civil justice system. You will find it beneficial to reach out for help as soon as possible after your accident.
