Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer | Protecting Your Rights After a Crash
A rear-end collision can happen in seconds but leave you facing medical expenses, property damage, and lost income for months. If you were injured in a rear-end accident caused by someone else’s negligence, a Houston rear-end collision lawyer at Texas Lawyers 365 can help you hold the at-fault driver responsible.
Our legal team works to build strong personal injury claims, deal with the insurance company, and pursue the financial compensation you need to recover.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in Houston
Rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of car accidents in Houston. Several driver-related and environmental factors can lead to these crashes, often resulting in serious injuries and expensive damage.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major cause of rear-end collisions in Houston. Drivers who use mobile phones, adjust the radio, or look away from the road often fail to react in time to stopped or slowing vehicles. This delayed reaction increases the risk of a crash. Many car accident lawyers handle personal injury claims that result from distraction-related accidents.
Tailgating
Following too closely, also known as tailgating, is another common reason for rear-end accidents. Drivers who do not maintain a safe distance cannot stop in time during sudden traffic changes. Texas law requires drivers to keep a reasonable distance from the vehicle ahead (Texas Transportation Code § 545.062). Failing to do so may make a driver at fault in a Houston car accident case.
Speeding
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop quickly and increases the force of impact in a rear-end crash. Many rear-end collisions involve speeding drivers who misjudge stopping distances, especially in heavy Houston traffic. These high-speed impacts often lead to severe injuries, property damage, and higher medical expenses.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs affects judgment and reaction time. Impaired drivers are more likely to cause rear-end accidents, especially at intersections or in stop-and-go traffic. A car accident attorney can help injury victims pursue compensation when the at-fault party was impaired.
Bad Weather and Road Conditions
Wet roads, fog, and reduced visibility can contribute to auto accidents, including rear-end collisions. Drivers must adjust their speed and following distance to account for these conditions. Failure to do so may be considered negligence in a personal injury case.
Sudden Stops
Sudden stops without warning can lead to rear-end crashes, especially if brake lights are not working or the driver behind is not paying attention. Although the rear driver is often held liable, liability can shift in certain situations. Each Houston car accident case must be reviewed carefully to determine fault.
Mechanical Failures
Brake failure, worn tires, or malfunctioning signals can cause motor vehicle accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance is part of a driver’s responsibility. If a mechanical issue leads to a rear-end collision, multiple parties, including mechanics or manufacturers, may be held liable in a personal injury claim.
Injuries Common in Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end collisions often cause serious physical harm, even at low speeds. Many car accident victims suffer injuries that require medical treatment, time off work, and ongoing care.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Whiplash is the most common injury in rear-end accidents. It occurs when the head jerks forward and backward quickly, straining the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Symptoms include stiffness, pain, headaches, and limited range of motion. These injuries may not appear immediately after the car crash, which is why it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The force of a rear-end collision can damage the spine, leading to herniated discs or fractured vertebrae. In more serious cases, spinal cord injuries may cause partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care. A Houston personal injury lawyer can help pursue compensation for medical expenses and lost income in these cases.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can happen when the head strikes a surface or is violently shaken during impact. Even mild TBIs, such as concussions, can lead to memory problems, dizziness, and cognitive issues. Severe TBIs may have lifelong effects. A Houston car accident attorney can assist with proving the injury and recovering the full value of your personal injury claim.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are common in high-speed rear-end collisions, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and wrists. These injuries can make it difficult to work or carry out daily tasks. Recovery may require surgery, casting, and physical therapy. Victims should gather medical records to support their car accident claim.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Torn muscles, bruises, and ligament damage fall under soft tissue injuries. These may not show up on X-rays but can still cause pain and limit mobility. Insurance companies may try to undervalue these injuries, but an experienced personal injury attorney can help document them and fight for fair compensation.
Internal Injuries
Blunt force trauma from a rear-end accident can damage internal organs. These injuries are often life-threatening and may not be visible right away. Symptoms like abdominal pain or dizziness should never be ignored. Immediate medical attention can save lives and also strengthen your injury claim.
Who is At Fault in a Rear-End Collision in Texas?
Determining fault in a rear-end collision is key to recovering compensation in a personal injury claim. Texas follows a fault-based system, which means the driver responsible for the crash must pay for the damages.
Rear Driver Is Usually At Fault
In most rear-end accidents, the driver who hits the back of another vehicle is considered at fault. Texas law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. If a driver fails to stop in time, it often shows they were following too closely or not paying attention.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are situations where the front driver may share fault. If a driver stops suddenly without a valid reason or has non-working brake lights, they may be partially responsible. In multi-vehicle pileups, more than one party could be liable. Each car accident case must be reviewed to determine the facts.
Comparative Negligence in Texas
Texas uses a system called modified comparative negligence under Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001. If you are found to be 50 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. If you are less than 50 percent at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. This rule applies to personal injury cases, including rear-end collisions.
Role of Evidence in Proving Fault
To prove fault, a car accident lawyer will gather crash reports, witness statements, vehicle damage photos, and medical records. Surveillance footage and accident reconstruction may also be used. Solid evidence helps show the other party was the negligent driver and supports your car accident claim.
What To Do After a Rear-End Car Accident in Houston
Taking the right steps after a rear-end collision can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
Call 911 and Report the Crash
Always call 911 after a car crash, even if injuries seem minor. Police will create an official crash report, which can support your car accident claim. The report will document who was involved, where it happened, and what likely caused the rear-end accident.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Medical records are key evidence in personal injury cases and help connect your injuries to the accident scene.
Document the Accident Scene
Take clear photos of all vehicles, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. This evidence can help a Houston car accident lawyer prove what happened and who was at fault.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Do not admit fault or apologize to the other driver. Anything you say can be used by the insurance company to deny or reduce your claim. Stick to the facts when speaking to officers or insurers.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance provider about the crash. Give them basic details but avoid making recorded statements until you have spoken with a car accident attorney. Insurance adjusters often try to settle car accident cases for less than their full value.
Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you file an injury claim, deal with the insurance company, and gather the right evidence. Many car accident attorneys offer a free consultation, so there is no cost to learn your options.
How a Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer Can Help
A Houston rear-end collision lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue full compensation after a crash.
Investigates the Accident
Your lawyer will review police reports, traffic camera footage, vehicle damage, and medical records. In some car accident cases, they may consult accident reconstruction experts. This evidence helps show how the rear-end accident happened and who caused it.
Handles Communication With the Insurance Company
The insurance company may try to reduce or deny your claim. A car accident attorney speaks on your behalf, manages all communication, and protects you from unfair tactics. This includes responding to requests and negotiating for a fair settlement.
Calculates the Full Value of Your Claim
An experienced personal injury attorney will calculate all losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, future care costs, and pain and suffering. Many injured victims underestimate their damages. A lawyer helps ensure your personal injury claim reflects the full impact of the crash.
Files All Legal Documents on Time
Texas law gives you two years to file a car accident claim under Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. A lawyer keeps your case on track by filing paperwork on time and following all court rules. Missing a deadline can prevent you from recovering damages.
Represents You in Settlement or Trial
Most rear-end collision cases settle without going to court, but some require a lawsuit. If needed, your lawyer will present your case in court with evidence and testimony. They will argue for the financial compensation you deserve under Texas law.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rear-End Collisions in Houston
What should I do immediately after a rear-end collision in Houston, TX?
After a rear-end collision, you should call 911, request a police report, and seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor. Document the accident scene with photos and contact information for any witnesses. Report the crash to your insurance company and avoid admitting fault. Contacting a car accident lawyer early can help protect your personal injury claim and increase your chance of fair compensation.
Who is at fault in a rear-end car accident under Texas law?
In most rear-end car accidents in Texas, the rear driver is presumed to be at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance. However, exceptions exist, such as sudden stops, faulty brake lights, or multi-car crashes. A Houston rear-end collision lawyer can review your case and help establish liability for the motor vehicle accident.
How much compensation can I get for a rear-end accident injury claim?
Compensation for a rear-end accident injury claim in Houston depends on the severity of your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Car accident victims may be eligible to recover damages for property damage, medical expenses, lost income, and ongoing treatment. A Houston personal injury lawyer can calculate the full value of your car accident case and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Can I file a personal injury claim if I have whiplash from a rear-end collision?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim for whiplash after a rear-end collision if the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Whiplash is a common result of rear-end accidents and may require medical treatment, physical therapy, and time off work. A car accident attorney in Houston can help you document your injuries and seek compensation for medical costs and lost income.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit after a rear-end collision in Texas?
In Texas, you have two years from the date of the rear-end car crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to file within the legal deadline can result in losing your right to pursue financial recovery. A Houston car accident attorney can make sure your claim is filed on time and includes all necessary documentation.
Contact an Experienced Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer ASAP!
Our team at Texas Lawyers 365 stands ready to protect you after a rear-end collision in Houston. We know how insurance companies work and we know Houston roads. We investigate crashes on I‑10, the 610 Loop, US‑59, and local streets.
Contact us at 800-800-8000 for a free case consultation!
