The possibility of a rear-end crash happening often on Milwaukee’s busy streets is high due to the consistent flow of traffic. Many drivers assume the person who hits from behind always bears full responsibility, but Wisconsin law tells a different story.
At PKSD, we have Milwaukee car accident attorneys determined to accurately represent your role as a victim of a rear-end collision. Our experienced personal injury attorneys know how to investigate these crashes and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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Why Is the Driver in Back Presumed At-Fault for a Rear-End Crash?
When a rear-end collision occurs, Wisconsin law generally presumes the driver in back is to blame. All drivers have a legal duty to maintain a safe following distance and adjust that distance when the weather, traffic or road conditions require it. This means keeping enough space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you so you can stop safely even if the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes or stops. This presumption exists because the trailing driver typically has the “last clear chance” to prevent the collision.
Is the Driver Who Rear-Ends Another Vehicle Always At-Fault in Wisconsin?
No, the rear driver is not always at fault for rear-end crashes in Wisconsin. While there is a legal presumption of fault, there may be instances where liability is shared, such as if the driver in front acted negligently or recklessly. Milwaukee courts recognize that rear-end crashes may sometimes result from sudden lane changes, brake-checking, or mechanical failures.
Wisconsin follows a comparative negligence rule where fault can be shared between multiple drivers in an accident. Front drivers who contribute to a rear-end car crash due to unnecessary sudden stops, illegal brake-checking or other negligent or reckless maneuvers, may bear partial or full responsibility. Milwaukee courts examine the evidence and other contributing factors leading up to a collision to determine each party’s percentage of fault.
When a Rear-End Collision Could Be a Scam
Brake checking may happen for several reasons, including road rage. One type of brake-checking that is often an insurance scam may involve “swoop and squat” schemes where fraudulent drivers cut in front of a vehicle and purposely slam on the brakes. These staged accidents can happen anywhere, especially but especially at busy Milwaukee intersections or highway on-ramps where traffic naturally slows down.
Warning signs may include getting “boxed in”, erratic driving, refusing police reports, or pushing for quick cash settlements. Scammers may also exaggerate injuries or work with dishonest repair shops to inflate damage claims. Always call police, document everything with photos, and contact your insurance company immediately after any rear-end crash in Wisconsin.
Common Causes of Rear-End Crashes in Milwaukee
While these crashes may seem straightforward, they frequently happen due to preventable factors that drivers encounter daily. Motorists aware of these common causes helps you stay safe on the road and protect yourself if you find yourself in a rear end crash.
- Distracted driving: Texting, phone calls, or eating while driving
- Following too closely: Tailgating without safe stopping distance
- Speeding: Driving too fast for traffic or weather conditions
- Drunk or impaired driving: Alcohol, drugs, or medication affecting reaction time
- Sudden stops: Unexpected braking without warning to following traffic
- Weather conditions: Ice, snow, or rain reducing traction on Milwaukee roads
- Mechanical failures: Brake problems or tire blowouts
- Road rage: Aggressive driving or intentional brake-checking
Kinds of Injuries Are Common in Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions often cause serious injuries due to the sudden force that jolts victims forward and backward. These crashes frequently result in both immediate and long-term medical complications for accident victims.
- Whiplash: Neck strain from rapid back-and-forth head movement during impact
- Back injuries: Herniated discs, muscle strains, or spinal compression fractures
- Head trauma: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries from hitting steering wheel or dashboard
- Broken bones: Fractured ribs, arms, or facial bones from airbag deployment or impact
- Soft tissue damage: Bruising, muscle tears, or ligament sprains throughout the body
- Shoulder injuries: Rotator cuff tears or dislocations from seatbelt force
- Knee injuries: Damage from hitting dashboard or getting compressed during impact
- Psychological trauma: Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression following the accident
How Drivers in Milwaukee Can Avoid a Rear-end Collision
As a driver, there are steps you can take to prevent most rear-end crashes. Adhere to the three-second following distance behind other vehicles, understanding that you may have to adjust that distance, such as during heavy rainstorms or other types of bad weather. Avoid distractions, like texting, eating, taking selfies, or phone calls. Keep your mind and your eyes always focused on the road and traffic in front of you and around you.
Brake gradually rather than suddenly, and make sure your own brake lights and taillights are working properly. Always signal lane changes appropriately, and check mirrors and blind spots frequently for surrounding vehicles. These simple defensive driving techniques significantly reduce your risk of causing or being involved in rear-end car accidents.
Injured in a Rear-End Accident? Contact Our Trusted Car Accident Attorneys Today
At PKSD, we have a proven history of securing favorable compensation for our clients, including those injured in Milwaukee car crashes. Our experienced attorneys fully investigate the crash that injured you and work tirelessly to recover the compensation you need and deserve. Do not let insurance companies rush you into low, unfair settlements that could leave you paying thousands for damages you did not cause.
Contact PKSD today for a free consultation. Call us today or complete our online form to discuss your rear-end accident case with our dedicated Milwaukee car accident lawyers.
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