Rear-End Collisions in Connecticut

Rear-end car accidents are common and happen all the time throughout Connecticut. They can happen in heavy traffic on I-95, while slowing down on a local road in Bridgeport, or even while sitting at a red light. No matter how they happen, these crashes often leave people with serious pain, unexpected costs, and a need for medical and legal help.

At Tremont Sheldon P.C., we’ve successfully represented many people who were injured in rear-end collisions. We know what to look for in these cases and how to help you take action if another driver caused your injuries.

Rear-End Accidents – The Basics

Rear-end accidents happen when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These crashes often seem simple at first, since someone hit you from behind. So, it should be clear who’s responsible. But in reality, proving fault, getting medical care, and recovering compensation from the insurance company can be more difficult and time consuming than expected.

Even at low speeds, a rear-end collision can jolt the body in unnatural ways. The head snaps forward and backward, the spine compresses, and passengers are often left sore, shaken, or worse. Some victims walk away thinking they’re fine, only to wake up the next day with debilitating neck or back pain. Others feel the effects right away and are taken to the hospital from the scene. Either way, rear-end crashes can lead to long-term consequences. You should never feel pressured to downplay them.

Causes of Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end collisions often happen because the driver behind wasn’t paying attention. In many cases, that driver is texting, fiddling with the radio, or just following too closely in traffic. They could also be eating or be distracted by their children or a passenger in their car. When they’re not ready for a sudden stop, they can crash into the vehicle in front of them. In 2022, there were 5,200 accidents caused by distracted drivers in Connecticut.

Rear-end accidents are also caused by drivers who are speeding or tailgating. When the car ahead slows down to turn or stop for a red light, a distracted or aggressive driver behind them may not have time to react.

There are also cases where road conditions, weather, or vehicle problems contribute to a rear-end accident. A worn-out brake system or bald tires can increase the distance it takes for a car to stop. Slippery roads or poor visibility can add to the risk. But in most situations, the driver in the back is still expected to control their car and avoid a collision.

Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Collision in Connecticut?

Many people wonder whether the driver in back is always at fault in a rear-end crash. In most situations, the answer is yes, but there are some exceptions.

Connecticut law generally places fault on the rear driver in these situations. That’s because drivers are expected to leave enough space between vehicles to stop safely, even if the vehicle in front of them slows or stops suddenly. This legal principle makes sense. If you’re following too closely or not paying attention, you’re in a poor position to avoid a crash.

The exceptions to this rule also make sense. If a driver suddenly reverses in traffic, has brake lights that don’t work, or intentionally slams on their brakes without reason (often called brake-checking), they may share responsibility and be partially at fault. Connecticut uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but your recovery will be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering at all.

What Injuries Are Common in Rear-End Crashes?

Whiplash is the injury most commonly associated with rear-end collisions. It happens when the neck moves quickly and forcefully, causing strain or tears in the muscles and ligaments. While many people recover from whiplash in a few weeks, others develop chronic neck or back pain that lingers for months or even years. In more serious cases, people suffer spinal disc injuries, nerve damage, or head trauma.

Other frequent injuries include lower back strain, herniated discs, shoulder injuries, and closed head injuries such as concussions. Airbags can prevent worse injuries but can also cause abrasions or facial trauma when they deploy. If the force of the collision is strong enough, it may also cause broken ribs, wrist fractures (from bracing on the steering wheel), or knee injuries from contact with the dashboard.

Children and older adults are especially vulnerable in these crashes. The sudden force can be more damaging to their necks and backs, and children in car seats may require extra evaluation even if no injury is obvious. Medical attention is always recommended after a rear-end crash, even if symptoms are mild or delayed.

What to Do Immediately After a Rear-End Crash?

The moments after a crash are disorienting. You might feel confused, scared, or angry, and that’s normal. Try to stay calm and take the following steps if you’re physically able:

• Check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s safer to be evaluated.
• Move vehicles out of the road if it’s safe to do so, but only after documenting the scene with your phone.
• Exchange names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details with the other driver.
• Take photos of all vehicles involved, their damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and any other relevant details.
• Get names and numbers of any witnesses who saw the crash happen.
• File a police report. In Connecticut, accidents resulting in injury or more than $1,000 in damage must be reported.
• Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be twisted later.
• Once you’ve left the scene, see a doctor, even if you feel okay. Many rear-end injuries have delayed symptoms, and waiting to get care could affect your recovery.
• Consult a Connecticut personal injury lawyer to learn your rights after a crash.

How Insurance Companies Handle Rear-End Claims?

You might expect the insurance company to be on your side, especially when someone else rear-ended you. But in reality, insurers work to protect their bottom line. They may try to downplay your injuries, blame you for part of the crash, or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. This is especially true if there are no visible injuries or if your medical care wasn’t immediate.

Adjusters may ask for recorded statements or access to your medical records. Be cautious. These requests are often designed to find reasons to deny or reduce your claim. It’s best to speak with a lawyer before giving detailed statements or signing anything.

A skilled car accident attorney can help level the playing field by handling communication with the insurance company and building a strong case with medical records, crash evidence, and legal strategy. This allows you to focus on your physical and mental recovery.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Not every driver in Connecticut carries the insurance they’re supposed to. If you were rear-ended by someone without insurance, or not enough of it to cover your losses, you may still have options for recovery. Connecticut law requires most insurance policies to include uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This is part of your own insurance that steps in to help if the driver who hit you can’t pay for your injuries or damage.

It’s common for people not to realize they have this type of protection. But in many cases, your UM/UIM coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering if the at-fault driver was uninsured, fled the scene, or didn’t have enough coverage to fully compensate you. This is especially important in rear-end collisions where injuries may be serious but the at-fault driver’s policy is minimal.

At Tremont Sheldon P.C., we regularly help clients through these claims, whether we’re dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance or your own. We’ll review your policy, explain your rights, and make sure every available source of recovery is explored. If you’ve been rear-ended by an uninsured or underinsured driver, don’t assume you’re out of luck. Contact us to find out how we can help.

How Tremont Sheldon P.C. Can Help?

Our firm has handled many rear-end accident cases in Connecticut. We understand how these collisions happen, what evidence matters, and how to present your case clearly and convincingly. We also know how stressful recovery can be, especially if you’re juggling medical care, work responsibilities, and insurance paperwork.

Our goal is to make this process easier for you. We take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing. We’ll investigate the accident, work with your doctors to understand your injuries, and negotiate firmly with the insurance company to reach a fair resolution. If they won’t agree to a reasonable settlement, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.

When to Contact a Lawyer?

The sooner you reach out, the better. Evidence fades over time, and insurance companies move quickly to shape the narrative and to reduce their liability exposure. If you speak with us early, we can preserve valuable evidence, help you deal with insurers, and make sure you avoid mistakes that might hurt your claim.

There’s also a legal time limit to file your case. In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for most car accident claims is two years from the date of the crash, but this time period can be shorter or longer. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to compensation.

Talk to Tremont Sheldon P.C. Today

If you’ve been rear-ended in Connecticut, please get in touch with us. We understand how frustrating and painful these accidents can be, and we take pride in helping people like you recover what they’ve lost.

Call us at 203-212-9075 or CLICK HERE to reach out to an attorney  to schedule your free consultation. We’ll listen carefully, explain your rights in plain language, and help you figure out your next steps. You don’t have to go through this alone. We’re ready to help.

FAQs

1. Who is usually at fault in a rear-end collision in Connecticut?

In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered at fault. That’s because Connecticut drivers are expected to leave enough space to stop safely, even if the car in front brakes suddenly. However, there are exceptions, such as when the lead driver reverses or has broken brake lights. Determining fault depends on the specific facts of each crash.

2. Can I still get compensation if I was partly at fault?

Yes. Connecticut uses a system called modified comparative negligence. As long as you are less than 51% responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your share of the fault. An attorney can help make sure the blame isn’t unfairly placed on you.

 

3. Should I see a doctor if I don’t feel hurt right away?

Yes, always. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, can take hours or even days to show symptoms. Waiting too long can not only delay treatment but also make it harder to prove your injuries were caused by the accident. Getting checked early protects both your health and your legal case.

4. What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own policy may still cover your injuries through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Many Connecticut drivers have this built into their insurance without even realizing it. Our firm can review your policy and explain your options.

5. How long do I have to file a claim after a rear-end accident in Connecticut?

The general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Connecticut is two years from the date of the crash. This time limit is called the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to take legal action. There are situations where this time limit can be much shorter than two years. That’s why it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.