While rear-end crashes are generally less severe than head-on or T-bone accidents, they can still cause significant injuries, particularly at high speeds.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end car accident in Tulsa, you may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At LaCourse Law, our experienced legal team is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process. Contact us today to discuss your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Compared with head-on collisions and T-bone crashes, impacts from behind tend to be slightly less dangerous. This is because both vehicles are traveling in the same direction and, for the most part, at about the same rate of speed when the collision occurs. When one vehicle hits another from behind, its momentum transfers to the other vehicle, causing it to rapidly accelerate in the same direction—much like a billiard ball does when a cue ball strikes it.
However, the bodies inside the car do not accelerate at the same rate. Instead, they remain in place while the car lurches forward, causing them to slam into the seat. This sudden and rapid acceleration generates significant force on the body. Additionally, if the car is stationary when it is hit from behind, the sudden acceleration is greater and results in more force on the bodies inside.
The amount of force could result in serious injuries to the neck and upper spine as the head snaps backward upon impact. This is commonly known as whiplash, and it is perhaps the most common type of injury from a rear-end crash. Other common injuries include concussions and broken bones or bruising.
There is a real risk of serious injury from being hit from behind by another vehicle in Tulsa. Injured drivers and passengers may be able to recover compensation, and a knowledgeable attorney could provide guidance throughout the legal process.
Like other accident claims, proving that the other person was at fault for causing the incident is key to a successful outcome. Usually, the driver who hits the other vehicle from behind is at fault for the wreck because they are responsible for maintaining control of their vehicle as it is moving forward.
However, there could also be situations where the front driver’s actions may have contributed to the accident, making them at least partially responsible. This is very important, because Oklahoma is a comparative negligence state, meaning that any compensation awarded in a claim could be reduced by the portion that the injured party was responsible for the accident. For example, if the injured driver was found to be 25 percent responsible, they would only be able to recover 75 percent of their compensation claim.
It is equally important to remember that Oklahoma has a modified comparative negligence rule. According to Oklahoma Statutes section 23-13, if an injured driver is 50 percent or more responsible, they may not recover anything at all.
Proving fault for an accident is an intense and complex process that requires a careful investigation of the facts. If you have been injured in a back-end crash, a skilled Tulsa lawyer could help by gathering evidence and talking to eyewitnesses to paint a complete picture.
If you have been hurt, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your hospital bills, medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team at LaCourse Law has years of experience handling rear-end car accidents in Tulsa and could help you seek compensation for your injuries.
The legal process is lengthy and complex, and an attorney could help you navigate the challenges so you can recover the compensation you deserve. Call today to schedule a meeting and discuss your case with a lawyer.
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