Baton Rouge Rear-End Collision Lawyer

Helping Victims of Rear-End Collisions in Baton Rouge

When you are driving, you expect the drivers around you to be paying attention to the road and to be driving safely. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Many drivers are distracted, speeding, or driving recklessly. When a driver is not paying attention to the road, they can easily cause a rear-end collision. These accidents can cause serious injuries to the victims.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to compensation. At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, we are dedicated to helping the victims of car accidents get the compensation they deserve. Our Baton Rouge rear-end collision attorney can help you file a personal injury claim and fight for your rights.

Call (225) 230-3110 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Baton Rouge rear-end collision lawyer.

Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions

A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle. It's one of the most common types of car accidents. Several factors can contribute to rear-end collisions:

• Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle doesn't allow enough time to react if the front vehicle slows down or stops suddenly.
• Distracted Driving: Being distracted by cell phones, adjusting the radio, eating, or any other activity that takes attention away from the road can lead to a driver not noticing the vehicle in front slowing or stopping.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces the time a driver has to react to changing traffic conditions, leading to a higher chance of rear-end collisions.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, or fog can decrease visibility and reduce traction, making it harder to stop in time.
• Sudden Stops: If the front vehicle brakes unexpectedly due to a hazard or traffic situation, the following vehicle might not have enough time to stop.
• Faulty Brakes or Vehicle Malfunctions: Mechanical issues with a vehicle's brakes or other components can prevent a driver from stopping in time.
• Driver Fatigue or Impairment: Being tired, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or otherwise impaired can slow reaction times and increase the likelihood of a rear-end collision.

These collisions can vary in severity, ranging from minor fender benders to more serious accidents causing significant damage and injuries.

Who is Liable for a Rear-End Collision?

In Louisiana, liability in a rear-end collision typically falls on the driver who rear-ended the vehicle in front. This is because drivers are generally expected to maintain a safe following distance and be able to stop or slow down safely if the vehicle in front brakes or stops suddenly. The presumption is that the driver behind did not maintain a safe distance or was not paying adequate attention.

However, there are situations where liability might be shared or the driver in front could be partially at fault. For instance:

Sudden and Unexpected Stops: If the front driver made an abrupt and unexpected stop without a valid reason, such as stopping unnecessarily or intentionally causing the accident, they might share some liability.

Faulty Brake Lights: If the rear driver couldn’t see brake lights due to the front vehicle’s malfunctioning brake lights, it could impact liability.

Multiple Vehicle Collision: In cases where a series of rear-end collisions occur due to an initial collision, determining liability might involve multiple parties.

Contributory Negligence: Louisiana follows the comparative fault rule. If the driver in front contributed to the accident by acting negligently, their degree of fault might reduce the damages they can recover.

Insurance companies, police reports, eyewitness accounts, and sometimes accident reconstruction experts help determine liability. However, the presumption of fault usually lies with the rear driver. Each case is unique, so liability can vary based on the specific circumstances of the accident.