You are sitting in traffic on I-10 or waiting at a red light, and suddenly—crash. Being hit from behind is one of the most common and frustrating types of car accidents in Houston. It happens in a split second, but the pain, vehicle damage, and stress can last for months or even years. If you were injured because another driver wasn’t paying attention, you do not have to fight the insurance companies alone.

A Houston rear-end collision accident lawyer can help you protect your rights. We handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on healing. From gathering evidence to negotiating with adjusters, we are dedicated to getting you the full compensation you deserve.

Why Rear-End Collisions Are So Common in Houston

Houston traffic is notorious. With thousands of commuters on major highways like I-45, the 610 Loop, and Beltway 8, stop-and-go traffic is a daily reality. Unfortunately, this creates the perfect environment for rear-end crashes.

Most of these accidents are preventable. They often happen because a driver is negligent or fails to uphold their duty of care. Common causes we see in Harris County include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, checking GPS, or eating while driving keeps eyes off the road.
• Tailgating: Following too closely leaves no room to stop if traffic suddenly slows down.
• Speeding: Driving too fast reduces reaction time.
• Drunk Driving: Intoxicated drivers often cannot judge distance or stop in time.
• Weather Conditions: Rain can make Houston roads slick, leading to skids.

Determining Fault in a Texas Rear-End Crash

There is a common belief that the rear driver is always at fault. While this is true in many cases, it is not an automatic rule. Under Texas law, all drivers must maintain a safe following distance. If a driver hits you from behind, they are usually presumed negligent.

However, insurance companies may try to shift the blame to you. They might argue that you stopped suddenly without reason, your brake lights were broken, or you cut the other driver off. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule (also known as proportionate responsibility). This means that as long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages. A skilled lawyer helps prove the other driver was the one who made the mistake.

Common Injuries from Being Rear-Ended

Even a “minor” fender bender at low speeds can cause serious injuries. The force of impact whips your head backward and forward violently. Adrenaline often masks pain right after the crash, so you might not feel hurt until the next day.

We help clients recover compensation for injuries such as:

• Whiplash: Severe strain to the neck muscles and tendons.
• Back Injuries: Herniated discs and lower back pain.
• Head Injuries: Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI).
• Soft-Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and deep bruising.
• Broken Bones: Fractures caused by the seatbelt or airbag impact.

It is vital to see a doctor immediately. Medical records are the most important evidence to link your injury to the accident.

Compensation You Can Recover

When you file a personal injury claim, the goal is to make you “whole” again financially. The amount of money you can receive depends on how bad your injuries are and how much insurance coverage is available. We fight to recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and future surgeries.
• Lost Wages: Money you lost because you couldn’t go to work.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from doing your job in the future.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional stress.
• Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle.

What to Do After a Rear-End Collision in Houston

The steps you take immediately after the crash can make or break your case. To protect your claim, follow this checklist:

1. Call 911: Get the Houston Police Department or local law enforcement to the scene to file a police accident report.
2. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, insurance details, and license plate number.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the vehicle damage, the road conditions, and any visible injuries.
4. Talk to Witnesses: If anyone saw the crash, get their phone number.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Go to the ER or your doctor, even if you feel fine.
6. Contact a Lawyer: Speak to an attorney before giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster.

How a Houston Rear-End Collision Lawyer Helps

Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay you as little as possible. They may use tactics like offering a quick, lowball settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries, or claiming your pain is from a “pre-existing condition.”

When you hire us, we handle the insurance company for you. Our team will:

• Investigate the crash and gather police reports and video footage.
• Collect medical records to prove the severity of your injuries.
• Handle all communication and negotiations with the claim adjuster.
• File a lawsuit and represent you in court if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement.

Deadlines for Filing a Claim in Texas

You do not have unlimited time to take legal action. The Texas statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you wait too long, you will lose your right to sue and recover money.

Additionally, evidence disappears quickly. Skid marks fade, camera footage is deleted, and witnesses forget details. It is best to start your claim as soon as possible.