As winter sets in and people in Massachusetts begin to face wet and icy weather conditions on the road, there is an increased risk of getting into an accident. At Finbury & Sullivan, P.C., we know that one of the most common types of crashes is the rear-end collision. Rear-end fender benders and more serious crashes frequently occur throughout the year but are particularly common when the roads are slick and drivers underestimate their vehicles’ ability to stop before hitting the car in front.
Even if you’re in a minor rear-end crash, you can suffer long-lasting injuries, according to Consumer Reports. One of the most well-known results of a rear-end collision is whiplash. This painful condition occurs when a person’s head is rapidly snapped back and forth in a collision, especially when the car is hit from behind. This motion damages the neck’s muscles, ligaments, and nerves and can result in chronic pain and stiffness. Women and tall people are particularly prone to experiencing serious whiplash injuries, which can occur even at speeds as low as 10 miles per hour.
There are many ways you can protect yourself against whiplash. Wearing your seatbelt and buying a car with a positive rear-crash rating are two of the best ways to protect your neck in a rear-end crash. Head restraints should be set near the top of your ears and within three to four inches of the back of your head. Avoid tailgating other vehicles, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Other common types of injuries resulting from rear-end crashes include concussions, knee injuries, wrist injuries and fractures. For more information, please visit our page on rear-end collisions.