What Causes Most Rear-End Collisions?

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car crashes. What causes the most rear-end collisions is driver error, including speeding, distracted driving, and tailgating. According to the NHTSA, in 2023, there were 1,748,481 rear-end crashes, accounting for 28.5% of all car accidents nationwide.  

By learning more about the causes of rear-end collisions, it can help prevent and reduce their frequency. If you were involved in a rear-end crash in Florida and experienced personal injuries and property damage, you may have the right to seek compensation from the driver who hit you. 
Request a free consultation with our Tampa personal injury lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options.

Understanding the Scope of Rear-End Accidents in Florida

The majority of rear-end crashes in Florida occur due to some type of distracted driving. In Florida, a crash occurs every 44 seconds, with one in seven crashes caused by distracted drivers. In 2023, preliminary data showed almost 300 people died from a distracted driving crash. Actual data for that year showed there were 395,175 crashes, with around 56,454 distracted driving crashes, resulting in 36,040 injuries and 482 fatalities. 

Read-end accidents in the state average around 30% of all accidents annually. In 2024, Florida reported 381,376 car accidents, with approximately 114,413 rear-end crashes. In Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, there were 40,651 motor vehicle crashes in 2024. So about 12,195 were rear-end collisions. 

Nationwide, the average number of rear-end collisions per year is approximately 1,771,209. The actual number of rear-end crashes from 2019 to 2023 is as follows:

• 2019: 2,194,000
• 2020: 1,457,155
• 2021: 1,770,328
• 2022: 1,686,082
• 2023: 1,748,481 

Nationally, in 2023, there were 461,282 injuries and 2,701 fatalities from rear-end crashes.

The Leading Causes of Rear-End Collisions

The leading causes of rear-end crashes are due to driver errors, such as distracted driving, tailgating, speeding, and driving under the influence, with the most rear-end crashes attributed to distracted driving. 

Distracted driving includes bad driving habits that take your eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, such as:

• Texting
• Not using the phone hands-free
• Watching videos on the phone
• Glancing at the GPS
• Eating
• Drinking
• Putting on makeup
• Shaving
• Changing radio stations
• Adjusting the volume of the radio

Besides distracted driving, the most rear-end accidents in Florida are caused by tailgating and speeding. Tailgating and speeding are quite common in all major cities in the state, including Tampa. Speeding is such an issue statewide that Florida introduced a new “Super Speeder” law on July 1, 2025. 

Distracted Driving: The Primary Culprit

As of 2019, nine people died every day in distracted driving crashes, as reported by the CDC. In 2023, the NHTSA reported that 8% of all fatal crashes and 13% of all injury crashes were from distracted driver accidents, along with:

• 3,275 fatalities
• 324,819 injuries
• 611 nonoccupant deaths (pedestrians, bicyclists, and others)

Distracted driving involves any type of distraction, which could be:

• Manual distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel for any reason.
• Visual distractions: Taking your eyes off the road for any reason.
• Cognitive distractions: Daydreaming or nodding off to sleep.

The leading distraction is texting or using your smartphone while driving. According to the NHTSA, sending or reading a text takes the driver’s attention and eyes off the road for at least 5 seconds. If you are driving at 55 mph, this is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. Furthermore, according to the IIHS, researchers have consistently linked smartphone usage with an increase in the risk of crashes. 

Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

Florida law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. Tailgating is following another driver closer than is reasonable and prudent. Tailgating shortens reaction time for the trailing driver and reduces the required stopping distance between vehicles.   

According to OSHA, one in three crashes is caused by tailgating. All drivers should always use the three-second rule, where you maintain a safe distance of at least three seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. Doing so can help prevent rear-end crashes. You should also increase the distance when driving in poor conditions. 

Aggressive driving behaviors can also lead to tailgating, particularly during heavy traffic conditions. Some drivers will follow too closely to prevent other cars from changing lanes and getting in front of them. However, they are not able to react as quickly when traffic comes to a sudden stop. 

When multiple drivers are tailgating, it can set off a chain-reaction crash, where one vehicle after another slams into each other. 

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Driving at excessive speeds above the posted speed limit increases stopping distances and reduces reaction times, making it more difficult to avoid a rear-end crash. At 70 mph, it takes about 350 feet to come to a complete stop on dry pavement. At 80 mph, it takes 400 feet to completely stop on dry pavement. If the driver suddenly hits the brakes, you won’t be able to stop safely in time.

At higher speeds, the force of impact increases the crash severity and potential for catastrophic injuries. According to the NHTSA, one-third of all fatalities is caused from speeding, and in 2023, accounted for 29% of all traffic fatalities. 

Reckless and aggressive driving often go hand in hand with speeding, and include these behaviors: 

• Tailgating
• Erratic lane changes
• Unsafe lane changes
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Driving at excessive speeds to “beat” other cars on the road
• Cutting other drivers off

When combined with speeding, they increase the risk of getting into a crash.

Some of the Florida’s most dangerous highways for speed-related and rear-end crashes include:

• I-4
• I-75
• I-95
• Florida Turnpike
• Veterans Expressway
• Beachline Expressway
• Dolphin Expressway
• Palmetto Expressway
• I-275
• I-195
• 408
• 417
• US 1

Poor Weather Conditions

When weather conditions deteriorate, it affects visibility and tire traction. Longer stopping distances are required during inclement weather. Poor weather conditions, such as rain, fog, thunderstorms, and tropical storms, can make roads slick, cause flash flooding, and make it difficult to see the vehicle in front of you. 

At 30 mph, a vehicle with worn tires can start to hydroplane, while a car with decent tire tread can hydroplane at 50 mph. The best practice is to slow down, increase following distances, and turn on your headlights. 

Vehicle Mechanical Failures

Two of the most common vehicle mechanical failures that contribute to rear-end collisions in Tampa are faulty brake lights and brake system failures. If your brake lights are not working, the driver behind you may not realize you are stopping, slamming into you and causing vehicle damage. Conversely, when brake systems fail, you are not able to stop and can hit the car in front of you. 

Another cause of rear-end crashes is related to tire blowouts and steering problems, like unbalanced tires or a misaligned vehicle. Regular vehicle maintenance can address these issues and mechanical problems to keep your vehicle operating correctly. When a mechanical failure is the cause of a crash, the repair shop or parts supplier could be held liable for the crash if they were negligent and did not complete repairs correctly or use defective parts. 

Sudden Stops and Driver Error

When the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops, it could cause a rear-end crash if you are not paying attention and following too closely. 

Some scenarios for sudden stops by the leading vehicle include:

• The traffic signal turned yellow.
• A pedestrian is crossing the street.
• An animal runs out into the road.
• A vehicle makes a sudden lane change and cuts them off.
• The driver is texting or otherwise distracted.
• Congested, heavy traffic flow.

Driver errors in rear-end collisions often involve misjudging distances and reaction times, such as:

• How long it takes a light to turn from yellow to red.
• Not allowing sufficient space between vehicles when switching lanes.
• Not allowing for suffident stopping distances by following too closely.
• Driving too fast for conditions.

How Florida Law Determines Fault in Rear-End Collisions

Florida law requires all drivers to maintain a safe following distance. When a rear-end collision occurs, there is a presumption that rear drivers are the responsible parties and considered at fault because they were following too closely. McNulty v. Cusack (1958) established the presumption that the rear driver was at fault for a rear-end collision. While Bellere v. Madsen (1959) established the rear driver has the burden of proof to present evidence to rebut this presumption. 

When fault is rebutted, it is shared under the state’s modified comparative negligence law. This law was updated in 2023 through HB 837, allowing the plaintiff to only recover damages if they are found to be less than 51% at fault for the crash. 

To shift fault, the defendant needs to gather sufficient evidence from witness statements, the police report, and may even need to call upon an accident reconstructionist. Having proper legal representation can make disputing faults and gathering the evidence easier.

Some of the recognized exceptions for disputing fault are: 

• The driver in front stopped suddenly and deliberately to cause an accident.
• The driver in front had no brake lights.
• The driver in front cut you off and didn’t have sufficient space to stop.
• Their vehicle experienced a mechanical failure of some sort.

What Are Some Common Injuries From Rear-End Car Collisions?

The extent of rear-end car accident injuries depends on the force of impact at the time of the crash. Injuries can be minor, moderate, or severe and catastrophic. 

Minor Injuries

Minor injuries generally have a relatively fast healing and recovery time with proper medical care and treatment. The recovery time can vary based on age and overall health. Usually most people recover within several weeks to a few months. 

The mechanism of injury for minor injuries is due to the force of the impact from the crash and causing the body to be rapidly jerked forward and backward, resulting in common minor injuries, such as:

• Whiplash
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Bruising 
• Lacerations, cuts, and scrapes
• Swelling
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Torn tendons and ligaments

Moderate Injuries

Moderate injuries usually require immediate medical care and treatment. They are normally caused from higher speeds and an increase in the force of impact, and include:

• Fractured and broken bones
• Concussions
• Herniated discs
• Psychological trauma/PTSD

Recovery time could take several months or longer based on the extent of the injury. Certain injuries could also require surgery, increasing recovery time. 

Severe/Catastrophic Injuries

Severe and catastrophic injuries can have long-term and life-altering impacts, such as partial or permanent disability, or wrongful death. They are caused from excessive high-speed crashes where the extent of the force of impact is significant, which could result in:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries
• Crushed limbs
• Amputated limbs
• Partial or permanent paralysis

Severe and catastrophic injuries require immediate emergency medical care and emergency surgery for certain injuries. Recovery is long-term, and could include physical and occupational therapy, as well as lifelong changes and impacts to a person’s livelihood. 

The Legal Process After a Rear-End Collision in Florida

The legal process after a rear-end collision begins immediately after the crash. 

Steps to follow include:

• Call 911, report the accident, and seek immediate medical attention.
• Document the scene and gather key evidence, such as pictures, videos, and contact details for all witnesses.
• Exchange information with the other driver.
• Retain all documentation, including medical records, medical bills, police reports, and lost wages.
• Consult with a Tampa car crash attorney to discuss your legal options.

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System and PIP Requirements

Florida has a no-fault insurance system that requires all drivers to have a mandatory minimum of $10,000 in coverage for PIP (personal injury protection) and PDL (property damage liability). After a crash, even when the other driver is at fault, you initially file against your own insurance and PIP benefits. 

However, you only have 14 days from the accident date to seek medical treatment to utilize your PIP coverage. If you do not file in that time, your insurance company can deny your claim. Additionally, once you reach your coverage limits or if you have more serious injuries, you can sue the at-fault driver for any damages and losses that exceed your coverage limits. 

Insurance Companies and Common Tactics To Minimize Claims

Insurance companies and their adjusters will use various tactics to reduce and minimize payments on rear-end crash injury claims in Florida, such as:

• Downplaying the seriousness of your injuries.
• Disputing fault.
• Initially denying your claim, forcing you to appeal.
• Valuing your claim for much less than it’s worth.
• Attempting to get you to admit partial fault.

To avoid hurting your claim, it is vital never to make statements or speak to insurance companies without first consulting with an attorney. It is equally beneficial to have your lawyer present when talking to them and making statements. 

Florida’s 2023 Tort Reform Changes

Florida’s Tort Reform Act of 2023 (HB 937) significantly made changes to personal injury cases and insurance claims. The biggest change was moving from “pure” comparative negligence to “modified” comparative negligence.

Under the modified system, you can only recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault. For instance, you were 40% at fault for the rear-end crash. Your total insurance settlement is then reduced by 40% and you only receive 60% of that amount. If you are 51% or more at fault, you cannot seek compensation from the other party. 

Another significant change brought about by HB 937 was changing the amount of time you had to file a personal injury negligence claim. Previously, the state allowed up to four years from the accident date. Under the Tort Reform, it was reduced to two years from the accident date. With the shortened statute of limitations, you need to seek legal representation after a Florida rear-end accident as soon as possible to initiate legal processes and ensure maximum compensation. 

HB 937 also made changes to medical bill admissibility and damages calculations. The new law places restrictions on that total amount of medical expenses that can be claimed to the actual amount paid. Previously, plaintiffs could claim the full price before any insurance payment or other discounts were applied. 

Lastly, lawyers are required to disclose whenever they refer clients to a medical provider under a letter of protection (LOP). An LOP is an agreement where the medical provider treats the client in exchange for future medical payment from the settlement. 

Compensation Available for Rear-End Collision Victims

The amount of rear-end accident injury compensation in Florida one can receive is directly related to the severity of their injuries. Potential compensation for rear-end collision victims could include:

• Economic damages: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
• Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment.
• Punitive damages: When the defendant’s behavior was grossly negligent and reckless, you may be awarded punitive damages as a means to punish them.

Economic damages are calculated based on the actual amount of out-of-pocket expenses. Non-economic damages are calculated using a multiplier that ranges between 1.5 and 5. The more severe the injuries, the higher the multiplier. Punitive damages are based on the judge’s discretion, and vary based on the extent of the defendant’s misconduct.

Contingency Fee Representation and Compensation

Tampa car accident lawyers represent clients on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not owe any legal fees upfront. Instead, your lawyer collects a percentage of your settlement once the case is resolved. Providing contingency fee representation allows individuals to obtain legal representation with the shared goal of obtaining maximum compensation and ensuring fair settlement negotiations with insurance companies. 

Preventing Rear-End Collisions: Safety Tips for Florida Drivers

While you cannot control what other drivers do, you can help to prevent rear-end collisions in Florida by using these safety tips:

• Maintain a safe following distance: Use the three-second rule and always maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. 
• Drive the speed limit: Adhere to posted speed limits, even when many drivers are not.
• Stay out of the left lane: On highways, unless you are passing, stay out of the left lane.
• Avoid all distractions: Put the phone down, use hands-free options, and never take your eyes off the road.
• Practice defensive driving: If you need to, take an online defensive driving course for a refresher on responsible driving habits.
• Utilize advanced safety features: Many newer vehicles have forward collision warning, emergency braking, blind spot detection, and adaptive cruise control. 
• Keep up on vehicle maintenance: Regular maintenance can identify problems with tires, brakes, and taillights before you get into a crash. 
• Don’t engage with aggressive drivers: When you encounter aggressive drivers, slow down and give them space. 
• Adjust defensive driving for poor weather: When it’s raining, foggy, or excessively windy, slow down and increase following distances.
• Obey all traffic rules: Never try to “beat” a yellow light, slow down at intersections, be aware of your surroundings at all times, and use your turn signals.

When To Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer After a Rear-End Accident

You should contact a Tampa personal injury lawyer for rear-end accidents as soon as possible for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options. 

Other reasons to consult with a lawyer for rear-end collision legal help in Florida include:

• You have moderate to severe/catastrophic injuries.
• Your injuries are worsening.
• Fault is being disputed.
• The crash involved more than two vehicles.
• The at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured.
• The insurance company made a “low-ball” settlement offer.
• Your losses are more than your insurance coverage limits.
• The accident involved a commercial or government vehicle.
• Wrongful death occurred.

It is imperative to act quickly to ensure you receive fair compensation. While rear-end collision cases can seem straightforward, there can be specific legal challenges and impacts you may be unaware of from Florida’s Tort Reform Act of 2023. Even though the Florida rear-end accident statute of limitations is two years, you should never wait, as vital evidence could get lost or become unobtainable. 

When you have legal representation, your personal injury attorney for rear-end collision in Tampa provides the following benefits:

• Represents your interests while you focus on healing and recovery.
• Provides representation on a contingency fee basis.
• Handles all insurance negotiations for maximum compensation.
• Gathers the necessary evidence to build a strong case and support your claim.
• Litigates the case, if needed, at trial.

Contact Our Tampa Personal Injury Attorneys Today

Don’t delay seeking legal advice and a free consultation after being injured in a rear-end collision. Delaying could hurt your claim, especially if you miss the two-year statute of limitations. 

At Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, we have helped people secure maximum compensation and favorable rear-end collision settlements for over three decades. We take cases on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t owe us anything until we win. Schedule your consultation now.

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