Rear-end collisions are one of the most common kinds of collisions.  They are notorious for causing whiplash injuries which are an extension and flexion of the neck caused by whipping of the head when it is propelled forward by a car striking from the rear.  This action is thought to cause tearing of the muscles and ligaments in the neck.  Unless there are exceptional circumstances, the rear driver is usually fully responsible for the damage caused in the car accident.

Rear-end car accidents can seldom be prevented but our car accident lawyers in Vancouver have some advice as to how the effects of the accident may be minimized.

• A properly adjusted headrest has been found to reduce the injury potential of a rear-end car accident.  Check your headrest and make sure that the top of the headrest goes at least up to the top of your ears.  This prevents some of the whipping effect of the collision.
• When you are stopped in a line of traffic, leave sufficient room between you and the car in front (remember the tip you learned at driving school about being able to see the wheels of the vehicle in front of you) so that you do not get smashed into the car in front when you are hit from behind.
• If you are in an intersection preparing to make a left turn, keep your front wheels pointed straight until you are actually ready to make the turn.  If you have them turned to the left while you are stopped and you get rear-ended, you may get pushed into an oncoming lane.
• Try to avoid sudden stops in case the vehicle behind you is following too closely.

If despite your precautions, you are involved in a rear-end car accident, our car accident lawyers in Vancouver have the experience necessary to guide you through the process of an ICBC claim.

Kevin Blair &
Graham Taylor

Taylor & Blair LLP
Personal Injury lawyers
1607 – 805 West Broadway
Vancouver, B.C.