In Florida, rear-end accidents are more frequent compared to other types of accidents. These accidents can happen anywhere, from congested highways like I-95 to local intersections in a city like Orlando. Often, rear-end accidents result in severe injuries and damages. Understanding the common causes of these collisions is crucial as it can help you stay safe on the road. It can also help protect your legal rights in the event you become a victim.
Below, we look at some common causes of rear-end collisions in Florida.
- Distracted Driving
Distracted driving behaviors such as texting, eating/drinking, or even using GPS can divert a motorist’s attention from the road and decrease their reaction time, increasing the risk of collisions. For instance, a driver on a cellphone may not realize that traffic is slowing down until it is too late to stop safely. This delay in reaction can result in the driver slamming into the back of the vehicle in front of them, causing a rear-end accident.
- Tailgating
Tailgating is when a driver follows the vehicle ahead of them too closely. This is another common cause of rear-end collisions in Florida. Florida law requires motorists to maintain a safe following distance behind the car in front of them, but unfortunately, some drivers disregard this rule. Tailgating makes it hard to stop on time to avoid an accident.
- Speeding
Speeding in Florida involves not only exceeding the posted speed limit, but also driving too fast for road or weather conditions. A speeding driver has less time to respond and stop safely if traffic suddenly comes to a halt. Additionally, in rear-end accidents, speeding often worsens the impact, causing more severe injuries and greater vehicle damage.
- Impaired Driving
Impaired driving is when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Drugs and alcohol impair a driver’s reaction time, attention, motor skills, and judgment, making it harder for them to drive safely.
- Sudden or Unexpected Stops
Sometimes, rear-end accidents happen when the vehicle in front suddenly stops, maybe because of an unexpected obstacle or pedestrians. In such a case, both the front and rear drivers may be to blame for the accident, and the comparative negligence rule may be applied in the case.
- Vehicle Malfunctions
Staying up-to-date with vehicle maintenance is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. If, for example, a driver gets on the road with faulty lights or tires, it can lead to a rear-end collision.
Steps To Take if Involved in a Rear-End Collision
If you are involved in a rear-end accident in Florida, the following are the steps to take;
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Take pictures of the accident scene
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Take witnesses’ names and contact information
- Seek prompt medical attention
- Consult an experienced Florida car accident attorney
An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and next steps.
Legal Help Is Available
If you suffer injuries in a rear-end collision in Florida, contact our Orlando car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal help.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, Naples, Melbourne, Fort Myers, and Fort Lauderdale areas.
