Getting into an accident is always stressful, but rear-end collisions are especially frustrating. Often, they happen in a split second when you least expect it. You're stopped at a red light, slowing for traffic, or waiting for a turn, and suddenly another driver slams into the back of your car. Even if you're not at fault, the process of dealing with the aftermath can feel overwhelming.
In Texas, the driver who hits another vehicle from behind is usually considered at fault. But there are still several important steps you need to take after the crash. With locations in The Woodlands, Conroe, and Huntsville, Texas, Bloodworth Law Firm, PLLC is committed to helping injured individuals pursue compensation after rear-end collisions and other personal injury incidents.
What To Do Immediately After the Crash
The minutes following a rear-end collision are important. Staying calm and taking the right steps can make a big difference for your physical health and any personal injury claim you may file.
Things to do at the scene:
Check for injuries: Your health and safety should always come first. Call 911 if anyone appears to be injured.
Move to a safe location: If your car is still drivable and it's safe to do so, move it to the side of the road to avoid additional accidents.
Call the police: A police report can be a critical piece of evidence for your personal injury claim.
Exchange information: Get the other driver’s name, contact info, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
Document the scene: Take pictures of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Talk to witnesses: If there are any bystanders, ask for their names and phone numbers.
Following these steps after a car accident is important for not only your health, but financial reasons.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Understanding why rear-end crashes happen can help you make sense of your situation, especially if the other driver tries to argue that you were somehow to blame.
Reasons drivers cause rear-end accidents:
Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or even eating can take a driver’s eyes off the road.
Following too closely: Tailgating gives a driver very little time to react if traffic slows down.
Speeding: Drivers going too fast often can’t stop in time when vehicles ahead slow down.
Sudden stops: While sometimes unavoidable, stopping without warning can be dangerous, especially if the following driver isn’t paying attention.
Weather conditions: Rain, fog, and other elements reduce visibility and braking ability.
In addition to understanding the common causes of rear-end collisions, it's also crucial to know when you’re not at fault.
When You're Not at Fault
Just because you're the front driver doesn't mean you're automatically in the clear—but in most cases, the driver who hits from behind is considered responsible.
Here’s why you’re probably not at fault:
Texas law presumes fault: Rear-end crashes are often due to the trailing driver not keeping a safe distance.
Duty to maintain control: The driver behind must stay alert and maintain enough space to stop safely.
Contributory negligence rarely applies: Unless you did something sudden and reckless, you're unlikely to share blame.
Still, the other party’s insurance might try to dispute the claim, which is why strong evidence is so important.
How Fault Is Determined in Texas
Texas is a “modified comparative fault” state. That means you can still recover damages if you're found partially at fault, as long as you’re less than 51% responsible. But your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Factors considered in determining fault:
Police reports: Officers often include their opinion about who caused the accident.
Witness statements: Bystanders can offer impartial perspectives.
Vehicle damage: The location of damage can help show how the crash occurred.
Traffic cameras or dashcams: Video evidence can be very persuasive.
Professional analysis: Accident reconstruction professionals may be used to review the details.
When it comes to a rear-end collision, it’s also important to understand your right to compensation.
Steps to Protect Your Right to Compensation
Even if you're confident you're not at fault, it's still important to take steps to protect yourself legally and financially.
What you should do after the accident:
Seek medical treatment: Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash can show up later. Medical records support your personal injury claim.
Report the accident: Notify your insurance company, even if you weren’t to blame.
Keep records: Save all receipts, medical bills, repair invoices, and communication related to the crash.
Avoid admitting fault: Be cautious with your words when speaking to the other driver or insurance adjusters.
Consider legal help: An attorney focused on personal injury can help you deal with pushback from insurance companies.
For more information on steps you can take to protect your right to compensation, contact an experienced attorney today at Bloodworth Law Firm, P.L.L.C.
Types of Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents might seem less severe than high-speed crashes, but they can still lead to serious injuries.
Common personal injuries from these crashes:
Whiplash: One of the most frequent outcomes, caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck.
Back injuries: Herniated discs and soft tissue injuries are common.
Head trauma: Even minor collisions can result in concussions or brain injuries.
Shoulder and arm injuries: The force of impact may cause sprains or fractures.
Airbag injuries: While lifesaving, airbags can cause bruises or burns upon deployment.
Getting prompt medical care not only protects your health, it also creates a record that supports your claim.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
After a rear-end collision, the other driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly. Their goal is often to settle fast and for as little money as possible.
What to watch out for:
Low settlement offers: These often come before the full extent of your injuries is known.
Recorded statements: Anything you say could be used to minimize your payout.
Delays or denials: Insurers may stall in hopes you'll give up.
Having a personal injury attorney on your side can shift the balance. They can speak on your behalf, gather evidence, and demand compensation.
What Compensation Might Include
If you've been injured in a rear-end crash and you weren’t at fault, you could be entitled to various forms of compensation.
Damages you might recover:
Medical expenses: From ER visits to physical therapy.
Lost wages: For the time you missed at work due to injuries.
Pain and suffering: For the physical and emotional toll of the accident.
Property damage: Including repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
Future treatment costs: For ongoing medical needs.
Make sure you’re receiving proper compensation. Reach out to a personal injury attorney for help.
When to Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney
Not every accident requires legal representation, but rear-end collisions can quickly get more complicated than they seem.
Signs you should call an attorney:
Your injuries are serious: Especially if you need hospitalization or ongoing care.
The other driver is disputing fault: Even in clear-cut rear-end cases, blame can be questioned.
Insurance isn’t cooperating: Delays, denials, or underpayment are red flags.
You’re missing work: Lost income can add up fast.
You’re feeling overwhelmed: Having someone in your corner can take the pressure off.
An attorney who handles personal injury cases in Texas can review your situation, explain your rights, and help you seek compensation.
Experienced Legal Advocacy
Getting rear-ended is bad enough without the added stress of proving your innocence. If you weren’t at fault in a rear-end collision, you shouldn’t have to pay the price—literally or emotionally. Following the right steps and getting legal help if needed can make a major difference in your recovery. Bloodworth Law Firm, PLLC serves clients in Conroe, Huntsville, The Woodlands, Livingston, and throughout Texas. Call today to schedule a consultation.
