Our team of personal injury attorneys is committed to helping accident victims understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
Rear-end accidents are among the most common vehicle collisions in the Bronx. With our borough’s congested roadways, constant construction, and stop-and-go traffic patterns, these accidents happen with alarming frequency on major thoroughfares like the Cross Bronx Expressway, Bruckner Boulevard, and the Grand Concourse.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in the Bronx
Rear-end collisions in the Bronx often result from:
- Distracted driving: Texting, phone use, and other distractions are leading causes
- Tailgating: Following too closely on busy Bronx streets leaves insufficient stopping distance
- Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, and ice reduce traction on roadways like the Major Deegan Expressway
- Sudden stops: Frequent construction zones and double-parked vehicles create hazardous stopping scenarios
- Speeding: Particularly dangerous in residential areas like Fordham and Mott Haven
- Fatigued driving: Common among commuters and commercial drivers
- Vehicle defects: Brake failures and other mechanical issues
Types of Injuries Commonly Sustained in Bronx Rear-End Collisions
The impact of a rear-end collision can cause various injuries, including:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden forward-and-back motion in rear-end accidents frequently causes whiplash, a soft tissue injury that can lead to severe neck pain, headaches, and limited mobility. These injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident but can develop into chronic conditions requiring extensive treatment.
- Back and Spinal Injuries: The impact force can damage vertebrae, discs, and the spinal cord. These injuries range from herniated discs to more severe conditions like spinal fractures or paralysis. Bronx residents employed in physically demanding jobs may find their livelihoods threatened by these injuries.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even at lower speeds, the sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can cause the brain to strike the inside of the skull, resulting in concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can profoundly affect cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life.
- Facial Injuries: Impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag can cause facial lacerations, broken noses, dental injuries, or jaw fractures. These injuries often require reconstructive surgery and can result in permanent scarring.
Steps to Take After a Rear-End Accident in the Bronx
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision in the Bronx:
- Prioritize Safety and Health – If possible, move to a safe location and seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Many serious injuries, particularly whiplash and internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Accident Scene – If you can, take photos of vehicle damage, the accident scene, and visible injuries. Note road and weather conditions, and collect contact information from witnesses, particularly in high-traffic areas like Fordham Road or The Hub.
- File a Police Report – Always call NYPD to the scene to file an official accident report. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal action.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but stick to the facts and avoid making statements about fault or the extent of injuries.
- Consult with a Bronx Personal Injury Attorney – Before accepting any settlement offers, consult with an experienced Bronx personal injury attorney who understands the unique aspects of local traffic laws and accident patterns.
Contact Apicella & Schlesinger
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision in the Bronx, don’t face the aftermath alone. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Apicella & Schlesinger are ready to evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We understand the unique challenges faced by Bronx residents after an accident, and we’re committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation.
Free Consultation with a Bronx Car Accident Lawyer
Contact Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law to request a free consultation.
Call (212) 568-4245