Whether driving down the highway or stopping at a red light, the last thing you expect is to be propelled forward. Unfortunately, this is the result of rear-end collisions. Due to the nature of these crashes, understanding the back and spine injuries one can sustain as a result of another driver’s negligence is necessary. The following blog explores these accidents in further detail, the injuries one can sustain, and why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced Broward County auto accident attorney as soon as possible to explore your legal options regarding these matters.
What Is a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end collision, as the name suggests, occurs when the front of one vehicle collides with the back of the car in front of it. These often happen in low-speed settings, like traffic, parking lots, or intersections. However, they can also occur in higher-speed situations.
Generally, the driver at the back of the collision is almost always liable for damages. This is because it is their responsibility to ensure they maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of them. As such, if the following driver is not paying attention or “tailgating,” they may not have time to stop if the vehicle in front brakes.
What Back and Spine Injuries Can I Suffer as a Result?
Because these tend to be low impact, many underestimate the severity of the injuries a victim can sustain. However, regardless of the speed at which the collision occurred, a victim can sustain several severe neck, back, and spine injuries. This is because a blow from behind can force a driver forward in their vehicle, causing their neck and spine to move forcefully and unnaturally.
These injuries include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Whiplash
- Spinal fractures
- Spinal stenosis
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative spine disorders
These injuries can cause immediate and intense pain. Unfortunately, they can also cause chronic pain for the victim, and many require intense medical treatment or even surgery to heal.
Am I Entitled to Compensation?
If you have been injured by another negligent driver, understanding that you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you’ve sustained is critical. Generally, you’ll find that you can recover funds for economic damages, like medical bills or property damage, as well as non-economic damages for mental anguish or pain and suffering.
However, if you’ve been involved in an accident, the most important thing to do is connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At the Finizio Law Group, we understand how overwhelming it can be to endure injuries due to another party’s negligence. That’s why our team is committed to fighting for the best outcome for you. We will do everything in our power to help you navigate these complex matters so you can start the next chapter of your life. Connect with us today to learn how we can help you.
