Understanding Rear-End Collisions in Los Angeles: Common Causes and How to Protect Yourself
Rear-end collisions can happen for a variety of reasons. The sudden jolt caused by a car hitting you from the rear can lead to whiplash and other serious injuries. Understanding the causes of rear-end collisions in Los Angeles is an important first step as you pursue compensation with the help of a personal injury attorney.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in Los Angeles
Living in an area that has heavy traffic congestion can increase the risk of a rear-end collision. The top causes of rear-end collisions include distracted driving, tailgating, and sudden stops. If the driver behind you is texting or otherwise distracted, that can reduce their ability to react if you slow down or stop.
Aggressive driving habits like tailgating can also cause rear-end collisions. Speeding also contributes, as higher speeds increase stopping distances. Poor road conditions, like potholes and sudden lane merges, further heighten risks. While rear drivers are typically at fault, other factors, such as defective brakes or reckless lane changes, can play a role in liability determinations.
How Driver Negligence Leads to Rear-End Accidents
It is an unfortunate reality that most rear-end collisions result from driver negligence. When drivers maintain a safe distance between themselves and the cars in front of them, this can greatly reduce the chances that they cause a collision. All too often, negligent driving can lead to conditions that greatly increase the odds of a rear-end collision.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs reaction times, making it harder to stop in time. Fatigue can have similar effects, as drowsy drivers may fail to recognize hazards. When negligence contributes to a crash, injured victims may have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
Common Injuries Sustained by Crash Victims
Even a low-speed crash can lead to serious bodily injury. One serious and common injury that occurs following a rear-end crash is whiplash. The sudden jolt of a car crash can seriously strain the spine and neck. This can leave injured parties with back injuries, concussions, and soft tissue damage that can cause long-term pain.
In higher-speed crashes, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries can occur, requiring extensive medical treatment. Some symptoms, such as dizziness or neck stiffness, may take days to appear, making early medical evaluation crucial.
Tips for Protecting Yourself from a Rear-End Accident
Some accidents are unavoidable, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of experiencing a rear-end collision. One important thing to remember is to maintain a safe distance between yourself and the car in front of you in Los Angeles. A good general rule is to allow three seconds of space between you and another vehicle. This allows you time to stop.
Remaining alert can also help you avoid becoming distracted. Make sure that your brake lights are both working. This can ensure that the vehicle behind you knows when you brake. Brake gradually and early rather than abruptly. If another vehicle is tailgating you, change lanes or let them pass.
Legal Options for Rear-End Collision Victims
California’s personal injury laws provide a pathway for injured partners to seek compensation following an injury. The driver who causes the rear-end collision can be held financially liable for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage. In most cases, the driver who hits the other driver from behind is presumed to be at fault.
If the at-fault driver disputes liability, the injured party can hire a personal injury attorney who either negotiates with the negligent party’s insurance provider or files a claim in court on behalf of their client. Once the claim is filed, the plaintiff can pursue a wide range of damages.
FAQs
Q: What Is the Average Payout for a Rear-End Collision in California?
A: The average payout for a rear-end collision varies considerably and is based largely on the extent of the bodily injury, property value, and how liable the negligent party is. Settlements can cover lost wages and pain and suffering if the case is resolved in court. One factor that determines the payout for a rear-end collision is the quality of the plaintiff’s attorney.
Q: Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Collision in California?
A: In most cases, the rear driver is at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance. However, exceptions exist, such as when the front driver suddenly brakes without reason or has malfunctioning brake lights. Some fraudulent drivers may even purposefully cause collisions to make money. Comparative negligence may apply if both parties contributed to the crash.
Q: What Happens if Someone Rear-Ends You and Leaves?
A: If someone rear-ends you and then flees the scene of the crash, you can rely on your own uninsured motorist coverage. Hiring an attorney can help you negotiate with your insurance carrier. A lawyer can also provide advice on how to locate the driver who caused the collision, which may require working with local law enforcement.
Q: What Is the Vehicle Code for Rear-Ending Someone in California?
A: California Vehicle Code § 21703 states that drivers must maintain a safe following distance to prevent collisions. If a driver rear-ends another vehicle due to following too closely or inattention, they may be cited for violating this law and held liable for damages resulting from the crash. Pursuing a claim requires knowledge of both traffic and personal injury laws.
Schedule Your Rear-End Collision Consultation Today
For decades, Shaffer Law has helped injured rear-end collision victims secure the compensation they were owed. Our law firm focuses on helping injury victims, so we understand the hardships that accompany a personal injury.
Our legal team is not intimidated by the tactics used by insurance companies, and we always allot ample time and resources to our cases so we can see them through. If you were hurt in a rear-end collision, you need legal help from a personal injury firm you can trust. We welcome you to call our office to set up a consultation so we can assess your case and explain how we can help.
Copyright©2025, Shaffer Law. All Rights Reserved.
Digital Marketing By 
