Rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic occur often in Cincinnati, which could warrant compensation for victims if another driver’s negligence was responsible for the accident and caused injuries and other related damages. This legal guide will go over these types of accidents and the options available for victims to seek compensation.
For help filing a claim or lawsuit for a rear-end collision or another type of accident case, get in touch with a car accident lawyer in Cincinnati at Young, Reverman & Bolotin by calling 513-400-0000.
Table of Contents
Why Rear-End Collisions Are So Common in Stop-and-Go Traffic
A report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined that rear-end collisions make up around 30% of all motor vehicle accidents. They’re among the most common in Cincinnati and across Ohio, especially in stop-and-go traffic. There are a few key reasons rear-end collisions are among the most frequent stop-and-go traffic crashes.
Close Following Distances
When traffic is stuck in a stop-and-go situation, vehicles are typically close to each other as they follow one another. This proximity increases the chances of rear vehicles hitting others in front of them, as they can’t slow down or stop in time to avoid a collision in many cases.
Distracted Driving
In stop-and-go traffic that involves a lot of stopping time, drivers are also more likely to experience distractions to occupy their minds while on the road. As a result, they may spend more time looking at and interacting with their phones, engaging with radio and other dashboard controls, communicating with passengers, consuming food and beverages, or experiencing various other physical, visual, or cognitive distractions. These distractions take drivers’ focus away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident due to inattentiveness.
Sudden Braking
In some instances, drivers in front may brake unexpectedly, leading the rear vehicle to collide into the front vehicle. For example, the front driver could need to come to a sudden stop when encountering an object in the middle of the road unexpectedly, which may not leave enough time for the rear driver to stop.
Who’s at Fault in a Rear-End Crash?
When determining fault in multi-vehicle accidents involving a rear-end accident in Cincinnati, multiple parties could be at fault, depending on the situation. While in most cases the driver of the rear vehicle is at fault for failing to recognize when to stop behind the front vehicle, there are circumstances when other drivers or other parties might be liable.
According to Ohio law, drivers must maintain a safe distance between themselves and motorists in front to enable them to come to a complete stop as needed. Violating this code could make the rear driver liable, but other parties might share liability, such as:
- Other drivers involved in the collision, such as drivers in front who stop without warning and cause a chain of rear-end collisions
- Pedestrians
- Road workers and maintenance crews
- Municipalities neglecting to properly repair or clear roads
- Part or vehicle manufacturers producing faulty products
If any of these parties caused an accident, a car accident lawyer with experience handling rear-end accident cases could help you prove liability.
What to Expect in Injury Cases Involving Rear-End Collisions in Stop-and-Go Traffic
The following are key elements of cases involving rear-end accidents in stop-and-go traffic:
Proving Liability
One primary aspect of any car accident injury case involves proving liability. You will need to prove you are not at fault in a car accident while showing that another party breached a duty of care to cause an accident and subsequent damages. To prove liability, you will need plenty of evidence in the form of police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and other items.
Seeking Medical Attention
Receive treatment from a licensed medical professional, regardless of your perceived level of injury initially after the crash. There are many types of car accident injuries that can result from rear-end collisions, from whiplash to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and other more serious injuries. Seeking medical attention can put you on the path to treatment while helping link your injuries to the accident.
Consulting an Attorney
Before attempting to negotiate an insurance claim or file a lawsuit, it’s best to consult with an experienced rear end collision lawyer. The right attorney could meet with you in a free consultation to discuss your case. If the lawyer decides to represent you, he or she could begin collecting evidence to support your case, determine liability, calculate the total settlement amount, and negotiate a claim with the liable party’s insurer.
To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in Cincinnati, contact us today and find out how Young, Reverman & Bolotin can help.
