Rear-end collision accidents cause devastating injuries

Whether a driver is sending a text message, changing the radio dial or impaired by drugs or alcohol, failure to focus on the act of driving can lead to a rear-end collision. Laws carrying increasingly severe penalties may not prevent every driver from engaging in risky behaviors behind the wheel. This places travelers in Virginia and across the country at risk of injury and death in motor vehicle accidents.

Recently, a multi-vehicle accident took the life of an unsuspecting driver who was stopped at a traffic light. The woman was in the fifth vehicle in a line of cars waiting for the light to change when a sixth car approached the light and did not stop. It struck the woman’s vehicle with such force that the waiting vehicle became airborne and landed in a nearby parking lot. A chain reaction ensued involving the other stopped vehicles, and numerous victims suffered injuries.

The woman driving the fifth vehicle died at the hospital of her injuries. The driver of the sixth vehicle was taken into police custody. She is facing a felony charge of aggravated manslaughter.

While investigators have not determined what caused the sixth driver to crash into the line of waiting vehicles, many similar accidents occur when drivers are impaired or distracted. When this is the case, it may compound the suffering of those family members who have lost a loved one in such an accident. By reaching out to a personal injury attorney, many Virginia residents have found peace of mind through seeking compensation from those responsible for their suffering and loss.

A rear-end collision can be a jarring and even terrifying experience. While some accidents may only result in minor injuries, others can result in serious health problems and even death. No matter the nature of the crash, it is important to understand the types of injuries you may have sustained from a rear-end collision. Although some injuries may be obvious and immediate, others may take time to show up.

Injuries resulting from a car collision can often be overlooked or ignored. Even if you do not see immediate signs of injury, you should seek professional medical advice and care. An accident may not seem severe, but even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries. Assessing your injuries is important not only for your health; it can also be key in determining any damages you may be owed if you intend to submit a claim with your insurance company or file a personal injury lawsuit.