Rear End Collisions

BY THE NUMBERS:

  • According to the NTSB, there were 32,367 traffic fatalities in 2011
  • The Florida Department of Transportation reports that there were 15,654,542 registered motor vehicles in Florida in 2013
  • The Florida DMV estimates that there are 200,000 automobile accidents in Florida annually

Rear End Collisions

Perhaps the most common type of motor vehicle accident occurs as a consequence of a rear end collision.  Typically, rear end collisions occur because the operator of a motor vehicle fails to notice changing traffic conditions ahead of them.  Often the driver is distracted or simply not paying attention.  In addition to the usual distractions such as texting, cell phone calls, and rowdy children; the most routine traffic accidents can involve very complex contributing factors such as malfunctioning traffic signals, faulty vehicle equipment, and/or a medical crisis.

If you are in involved in an accident, your first concern should be for your health and safety.  If you are significantly injured, you should not get out of your vehicle nor should you attempt to move your vehicle.  Call 911 on your cell phone, or use the emergency call button on your vehicle’s dashboard.  If neither is within reach, call out for help and request that someone call 911 on your behalf.  If you are not severely injured, and it is safe to leave your vehicle, you should do so.  Again, you should call 911 to report the accident and wait in a safe location for help to arrive.  In some circumstances, it may be necessary to remove your vehicle from the flow of traffic prior to the arrival of the police.  If you are able, you should take a picture of the scene before moving your vehicle.  Other than a law enforcement officer, you should not talk to anyone about the accident.  Also, if you are injured, you should seek medical attention immediately as failure to timely seek care may prejudice your ability to be compensated for your medical bills and injuries.   Finally, contact your insurance company and report the accident.

After you have dealt with the immediate crisis, you should consult with an auto accident attorney.  If you have been involved in an accident in Ft. Lauderdale, Plantation, FL, or any of the surrounding areas, Lane & Glassman, would like the opportunity to provide you with a free, no obligation consultation to discuss your rights and responsibilities and determine if you are entitled to compensation under the law.  Please call toll free (844-AUTO-LAW) or e-mail (Claims@USALawsuits.com) Lane & Glassman, to discuss your potential legal claim.