The most common type of vehicle crash in the United States is rear-ended automobile accidents. Specifically, around 1.7 million rear-end accidents occur in the U.S. each year. The severity of the rear-end accidents varies depending on the situation. However, no matter how severe, your life becomes at risk during an automobile accident. At Mandler & Sieger, LLP, we can handle your case if you have been personally injured during an automobile accident. Our Huntington personal injury lawyer will manage your insurance company and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Many cases of rear-end automobile accidents occur due to drivers being distracted. If a driver is not paying attention, they may not stop before hitting the vehicle in front of them. Examples of common distractions that may cause a vehicular accident include the following:
- Adjusting the radio
- Eating
- Interacting with other passengers
- Looking at other accidents
- Talking on the phone
- Texting
In addition to these common distractions, rear-end accidents may also occur due to uncontrollable factors such as:
- Driving under the influence
- Fatigue
- Mechanical issues
- Reckless driving habits
- Road rage
- Speeding
- Traffic
Hidden Damage After a Rear-End Accident
One type of damage that can occur after a rear-end collision is hidden damage. Hidden damage means there is damage to the vehicle; however, it is not apparent to the eye. Internal damage affects the functionality and value of the car. Consider our team if you have been in a rear-end collision, experienced internal damage, and are looking for a Huntington personal injury lawyer.
Car Alignment Problems After a Rear-End Accident
Another complication that may result from a rear-end accident is alignment problems. Alignment problems are evident when your vehicle veers to one side of the road while driving. In addition, if any of these other problems occur, there may also be an alignment problem:
- Crooked steering wheel
- Noise while steering
- Squealing tires
- Uneven tire wear
- Vehicle vibration
Our Huntington personal injury lawyer can assist you with dealing with your insurance, and handling rear-end alignment problems after an accident.
Rear-End Accident Engine/Transmission Damage
The engine is another part of the car that can receive damage after a rear-end accident. The engines in cars are delicate and specifically structured. If the “check engine” light appears after an accident, it is advised to take your vehicle to a technician immediately. You may also want to see a technician if your transmission components have been damaged. Transmission components are located at the rear of a vehicle and can be damaged if the following occur:
- Transmission fluid leak
- Issues with acceleration
- Problems when shifting
What to Do After a Rear-End Automobile Accident
After getting into a rear-end automobile accident, the first thing you want to do is walk around your vehicle and check for damage. Inspecting the car for its damage can help understand what needs to be repaired. First, look at the vehicle’s trunk and door gaps to ensure they are even. There should not be any distortion. Next, check the taillights and rear bumper. Compare both sides of the bumper to ensure evenness and compare the right and left tail lights, and make sure they fit the car the same. You should check for damage in other parts, such as the vehicle quarter panels, sail panel, and vehicle roof.
In more severe cases, buckling may occur on these parts due to the rear-end collision. It is also essential to look under the vehicle’s rear for damage. More specifically, evaluate the left and right rear rails and the trunk floor plan. These parts may become visually kinked or distorted due to rear-end impact. Lastly, check the rear suspension area. The vehicle may drive poorly if the rear suspension or other suspension components are damaged.
Contact Mandler & Sieger, LLC
Rear-end accidents can be distressing and hard to handle, especially if you have been injured. If you are in search of a Huntington personal injury lawyer to handle your rear-end accident case, consider our team. Our lawyers at Mandler & Sieger, LLC are ready to handle your situation, take on your insurance company, and bring you justice. Contact us with your questions and details of your situation, and we will oversee your case.