Rear-end car accidents in Houston are some of the most common collisions, happening almost daily. They occur when one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often because someone is speeding, following too closely, or distracted by their phone.
Commonly called “fender benders,” these accidents can result in surprisingly serious injuries and losses. Seeking compensation can be challenging, but our experienced car accident attorneys from Mostyn Law can help.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
While they may seem straightforward, rear-impact motor vehicle crashes in Houston often result in serious injuries and complex legal claims. Understanding the common causes of these accidents helps establish liability and build a strong case for compensation.
Distracted Driving
Texting, taking phone calls, eating, adjusting the radio, or interacting with passengers are leading causes of rear-end collisions. When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, they may fail to notice stopped or slowing traffic ahead.
Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Texas law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. Tailgating is especially dangerous on congested freeways such as the I-10, I-45, and the Beltway, where traffic conditions change rapidly.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance. When drivers exceed safe speeds for road conditions, they cannot stop in time to avoid rear-ending vehicles ahead.
Impaired Driving
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. Impaired drivers often fail to recognize hazards or brake appropriately, causing devastating rear-end crashes.
Fatigued Driving
Drowsy drivers experience delayed reactions similar to intoxicated drivers. Commercial truck drivers working long hours are particularly susceptible to fatigue-related rear-end accidents.
Our collision attorneys can review the details of your crash to determine the cause, allowing us to identify liable parties.
How Is Liability Determined in Rear-End Accidents?
Texas law generally presumes that the following driver is responsible for maintaining a safe distance and remaining attentive. This presumption places the burden on the rear driver to prove they were not negligent if they want to avoid liability in a rear-impact crash.
Some exceptions can shift liability or lead to shared liability:
- If the front driver suddenly reversed without warning
- When the front driver’s brake lights were malfunctioning, and they knew or should have known about the defect
- If the front driver made an abrupt, unreasonable stop without cause or warning
- When the front driver cut in front of another vehicle’s lane
Highways frequently see chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles. In these cases, determining liability becomes more complicated. The initial rear-ending driver may be liable for all subsequent collisions, or multiple drivers may share fault depending on their actions and following distances.
To establish liability, your car accident attorney must demonstrate that the at-fault driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty through negligent actions, and directly caused your injuries and damages. Evidence, including police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, vehicle damage analysis, and accident reconstruction, may be necessary.
At Mostyn Law, our Houston lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify all liable parties and build compelling cases that hold negligent drivers and companies accountable for rear-end auto collisions.
Discuss Your Rear-Impact Auto Crash With a Houston Lawyer
Rear-end car accidents in Houston can cause physical injuries, psychological harm, and financial strain. You deserve fair compensation if you were injured in a rear-end crash caused by someone else’s negligence. Through a proper claim, you can seek financial recovery for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
At Mostyn Law, our team understands insurance companies’ tactics to undervalue claims. Consultations are free, and you pay nothing unless we obtain compensation for you. Contact us today for legal support.