Rear-end car accidents can range from minor fender benders with minimal harm to multi-car pile-ups, causing several people to suffer severe or fatal injuries. If you have suffered harm one of these types of collisions, you may be able to file a personal injury claim.
A dedicated attorney who has experience with rear-end car accidents in The Woodlands could rigorously pursue your case. Call our office today to learn how a vehicle collision attorney could help you seek compensation for your losses.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in The Woodlands
Though these crashes can result from brake failure or vehicle malfunction, negligent driving is the most common cause of these types of car accidents. Other incidents that may lead to a rear-end crash may include:
- Following too closely
- Failure to use turn signals
- Speeding
- Failure to stop at a traffic signal
- Distracted or inattentive driving
- Road rage
- Driving while intoxicated
Motorists who participate in these negligent acts may be held liable for any damages they cause in the event of an accident. A skilled auto wreck attorney could assess the details of a rear-end collision and determine if negligent driving was the cause of the crash.
Potential Liable Parties in a Rear-End Motor Vehicle Accident
In rear-end car accidents, the point of impact typically suggests that the driver in the back is responsible for the collision. However, in a pile-up, where multiple cars are rear-ended in succession, determining fault becomes increasingly complex. Some potentially liable parties may include:
- The other driver(s)
- A pedestrian
- The vehicle manufacturer
- A construction company
Modified Comparative Negligence
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.003(a), the court has the authority to identify all of the potentially at-fault parties and assign each person a percentage of liability for damages. The state follows a modified comparative negligence law when determining liability in auto wrecks. According to these laws, the percentage amount of fault that is assigned to a plaintiff will determine their damages award.
According to Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 33.001, a claimant who is 51 percent or more at fault for the accident will be barred from recovering damages. That being said, a claimant who is 50 percent or less at fault may receive damages reduced by their percentage of the blame. A local car accident attorney could help a plaintiff identify the liable parties in a rear-end collision to avoid losing potential compensation.
Speak with a Legal Professional about Rear-End Car Accidents in The Woodlands
Rear-impact collisions may be hard to avoid, but those who have suffered injuries in these types of accidents could recover compensation for their losses. Regardless of the types of injuries and extent of vehicle damage you have sustained, it may be beneficial to retain legal counsel. If you were recently injured in a rear impact collision, you may struggle to file a claim without a lawyer.
Contact our office to discuss rear-end car accidents in The Woodlands with a licensed attorney. Our team could determine if you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and damages.