San Francisco Injury Lawyer Blog
On Monday, April 30, a California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicle was parked on the right shoulder of I-80 in Fairfield. It was struck from behind by a white Mitsubishi Mirage prior to 3:40 p.m. The Mitsubishi driver and two passengers, one seated in the back and the other in the front passenger seat, were all seriously injured and taken to a local hospital. The CHP officer suffered moderate injuries. The accident is currently under investigation. If the Mitsubishi driver is found to be at fault, then the injured parties may file a personal injury claim against the driver and their insurance policy.
If you were injured in a crash in California, do not hesitate to ask for legal help. The personal injury lawyers at Brod Law Firm have years of experience handling car accident claims. By calling us, you obtain an experienced and knowledgeable advocate who will fight hard for your right to compensation. Contact Brod Law Firm today online or by calling (800) 427-7020.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Read-end accidents are unfortunately common. They happen in a variety of ways, causing a wide range of damage and injuries, every day in the U.S. Some are simple fender benders that only result in property damage. Others are more significant and can lead to serious injuries and fatalties.
Some of the most common reasons for rear-end accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who do not keep their eyes on the road are less likely to notice a potential danger on the road and have less time to stop after noticing a hazard. When drivers are looking at their phones, fiddling with the radio, trying to do their hair or makeup, or are entertaining passengers, they are less likely to see a vehicle in front of them slowing down or coming to a stop. Their distraction may cause them to strike the vehicle ahead of them without slowing or while attempting to stop.
- Speeding: Driving a vehicle above the speed limit can be exhilarating and freeing until a driver realizes how long it takes the vehicle to stop. When a car is moving 45 mph instead of 35 mph in a residential zone or 90 mph instead of 65 mph on the highway, the driver must not only be extremely vigilant, but also ready to slam on the brakes at a moment’s notice. Speeding significantly increases the chance of a driver not stopping in time and rear-ending another car.
- Tailgating: Whether it is because the driver is in a hurry, not paying attention, or intentionally being aggressive, driving too close to another vehicle is always dangerous. Drivers who tailgate another car increase their risk of not being able to stop in time to avoid a crash.
- Impaired driving: Anytime a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the likelihood of an accident skyrockets. Drivers who are drunk or high on drugs are less likely to notice a potential accident and react appropriately.
- Drowsy driving: When people get behind the wheel of the car while overly tired, it is almost as bad as driving drunk. Fatigue effects a person’s mind and body, impairing their ability to operate a vehicle safely. Drowsy drivers are much more likely to rear-end another vehicle because they may not notice the vehicle slowing down or stopped, and they may not react fast enough to avoid a collision.
Were You Injured in a Rear-End Accident?
If you were struck by another vehicle from behind, whether you were driving or your vehicle was parked, contact a San Francisco car accident attorney from Brod Law Firm right away. One of our experienced lawyers will guide you through the insurance claim process, and if necessary, represent you in a personal injury lawsuit.
(image courtesy of Hogarth de la Plante)