Car accidents can happen when you least expect them. No one ever really wants to be involved in one, but despite that, they are quite common. In 2000, there were over 6 million nonfatal car accidents and over 35,000 fatal incidents. Clearly, from fender benders to high-speed collisions, car crashes are everywhere.

Rear end accidents occur when the driver of one car hits the back of the car in front of him or her. There are laws in place in an attempt to reduce the number of these particular incidents. For example, vehicles must remain a certain distance behind the cars or trucks in front of them. If a driver rear-ends someone, then they are almost always put to blame on the basis of following too close.

Sometimes, however, the person who has been hit is at fault in a rear-ending situation. If that driver’s brake lights are out, if he or she makes a poor lane change decision, or if someone else rear-ends your stopped car, causing you to hit the vehicle in front of you, then you are typically not blamed for the incident.

What Do I Do After a Rear-End Accident?

First and foremost, do not leave the scene of the collision. If you can, move away from traffic to a safer area to wait for officials to arrive. Make sure that you exchange information, including names, phone numbers, addresses, license plate number, and insurance information, with the other person or people involved. It is also always advised that the police are notified right away about the incident. Finally, notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as you can. They can help you work out logistics from there.

Contact Us

For more information on rear-end accidents and what you should do if you are ever involved in one, please contact the Chicago auto insurance agents of Insure on the Spot at 888-972-7283.