Detroit, also known as Motor City, is infamous for its busy highways and congested roads. With significant traffic on the streets every day, it’s no surprise that rear-end collisions are common in this city.
Many people think rear-end accidents are no big deal, as they are often referred to as “fender benders,” and many people walk away relatively unscathed. However, many people are not so fortunate, as they suffer serious injuries from this type of collision.
If you suffered injuries in a rear-end crash, always seek medical treatment. Then, discuss your legal options with an experienced Detroit car accident attorney.
Why Rear-End Collisions Are So Common in Detroit
Many driver errors can lead to rear-end collisions, making them particularly common in Detroit.
Distracted Drivers
One of the leading causes of rear-end collisions in Detroit is distracted driving. In today’s digital world, getting distracted behind the wheel is easier than ever. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or using GPS, these distractions can take a driver’s attention away from the road, causing them to hit the vehicle in front of them. Even a momentary lapse in focus can have severe consequences, and this is true whether a driver is on a highway, traveling at slower speeds, or even approaching a stop light.
Aggressive and Tailgating Drivers
Aggressive driving is another contributing factor to the high number of rear-end collisions in Detroit. Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and excessive speeding are all common sights on the Motor City’s roads. When drivers engage in these risky behaviors, they decrease their ability to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic, leading to an increased likelihood of a rear-end collision.
Speeding Drivers
Speeding is also a serious issue in Detroit, significantly contributing to rear-end collisions. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they are being unsafe, as they decrease their reaction time and the distance required to come to a complete stop. This greatly increases the chances of a rear-end collision, especially in high-traffic areas.
Impaired Drivers
Drunk driving and operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs are serious offenses that can have severe consequences. Impaired drivers often exhibit slowed reaction times, reduced coordination, and impaired judgment, making them more prone to causing rear-end collisions. Detroit sees its fair share of impaired drivers, further contributing to these accidents across the city.
No matter what type of driver error caused your collision, always discuss your rights with a Detroit car accident lawyer. They can determine the best course of action with Michigan’s complex no-fault auto insurance laws in mind.
Where Rear-End Crashes Happen in Detroit
Rear-end collisions can happen anywhere on Detroit’s roads, but certain areas are known for having a higher frequency of such accidents.
Highway interchanges, such as the I-94 and I-75 junctions, are notorious spots for rear-end collisions due to the high volume of traffic and frequent lane changes. Additionally, congested downtown streets and busy intersections, like Woodward Avenue and Jefferson Avenue, are also hotspots for these types of accidents.
Awareness of these high-risk areas can help drivers exercise extra caution to avoid rear-end collisions. The reality is, however, that you can be rear-ended anywhere in the city. While you can be as safe a driver as possible, you can never control the actions of others, and a negligent driver might crash into the back of your car when you least expect it.
Unfortunately, it only takes a moment for a crash to happen, but the effects of serious injuries can linger for weeks, months, or years. Having a car accident attorney seek compensation for your losses is critical to your overall recovery.
Serious Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end collisions may seem minor to some, but they often result in severe injuries. Whiplash, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones are just a few examples of the harm that can result from the impact of a rear-end collision.
Even at low speeds, the force of a rear-end collision can cause significant damage to a person’s body. Always seek medical attention after a rear-end collision, even if you initially feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. This helps your health and your car accident claim.
Michigan Has Complex Auto Insurance Laws Regarding Car Accidents
Michigan has a no-fault insurance system, which means that regardless of who caused the rear-end collision, each party’s insurance company is initially responsible for covering their medical expenses and damages. However, the laws can be more complicated than this, as third-party negligence claims are also possible in some situations. This is why it’s critical to consult a car accident attorney who is well-versed in Michigan’s laws and can handle the complex legal process.
Insurance Companies Downplay Rear-End Crashes
Insurance companies often downplay the severity of rear-end collisions in an attempt to minimize payouts. Their goal is to reduce settlements to increase profits, which makes the process difficult for injured claimants. This is true even for no-fault claims with your own insurance provider.
Insurance adjusters may try to shift blame onto the victim or argue that the injuries sustained are not as serious as you claim. They might allege your injuries were pre-existing or you did not require all your medical treatment or time away from work.
This is why having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney advocating for you is crucial. They will fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. The right attorney will take your rear-end accident seriously.
Always Consult a Detroit Car Accident Attorney About Your Rear-End Collision
If you have been in a rear-end collision in Detroit, never wait to consult a Detroit personal injury attorney who handles these types of cases. They will guide you through the legal process, help determine fault, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Remember, the insurance companies have representatives and lawyers working for them, and you deserve the same level of representation to protect your rights. Case evaluations are free, so do not hesitate to begin the claim process now.
