How Texting While Driving Causes Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes are one of the most common types of car accidents in California, and texting while driving is a leading cause. When a driver looks down at a phone instead of the road, even for a few seconds, traffic conditions can change instantly. A skilled rear end accident lawyer knows that many so-called “simple” rear-end collisions are actually the result of distracted driving — and those few seconds of distraction can cause life-changing injuries.

If you were hit from behind and suspect the other driver was texting, understanding how distraction leads to crashes can strengthen your claim.

Texting Combines Three Dangerous Distractions

Texting is especially dangerous because it involves:

• Visual distraction – Taking your eyes off the road
  
• Manual distraction – Removing one or both hands from the wheel
  
• Cognitive distraction – Focusing your mind on a conversation instead of driving
  

When all three happen at once, reaction time drops dramatically. At highway speeds, looking down at a phone for just five seconds means traveling the length of a football field without watching the road.

A rear end accident lawyer frequently sees cases where drivers never even attempted to brake because they were looking at their phones.

Delayed Reaction Time Leads to Impact

Safe driving requires maintaining enough distance to stop if traffic slows. When a driver is texting, they often fail to notice brake lights ahead.

By the time they look up, it may be too late. Even a half-second delay can make the difference between stopping safely and crashing into the vehicle in front.

In heavy traffic, especially in stop-and-go freeway conditions, texting drivers are at high risk of rear-ending other vehicles.

Stop-and-Go Traffic Is Especially Dangerous

Rear-end collisions frequently occur in:

• Freeway congestion
  
• Construction zones
  
• Busy intersections
  
• School zones
  
• Red light stops
  

In these situations, traffic patterns change quickly. Drivers must constantly monitor surrounding vehicles. A texting driver is far more likely to miss sudden stops or lane shifts.

Texting While Driving Is Illegal in California

California law prohibits handheld phone use while driving. Texting, emailing, or using apps while operating a vehicle is illegal.

Despite these laws, distracted driving remains common. A violation of texting laws can serve as strong evidence of negligence in a rear-end accident claim.

A knowledgeable rear end accident lawyer may seek phone records or digital evidence to demonstrate that the driver was actively using their device at the time of the crash.

Common Injuries in Texting-Related Rear-End Crashes

Rear-end impacts caused by distracted drivers can lead to:

• Whiplash
  
• Herniated discs
  
• Neck and back injuries
  
• Concussions
  
• Traumatic brain injuries
  
• Shoulder injuries
  

Even low-speed crashes can cause serious soft tissue damage. High-speed rear-end impacts can result in catastrophic spinal injuries.

Why Insurance Companies Dispute Texting Claims

Insurance companies often deny that their driver was texting, even when evidence suggests otherwise. They may argue:

• The driver was looking at navigation
  
• The collision happened too quickly to avoid
  
• The lead vehicle stopped suddenly
  

Without digital evidence or witness testimony, proving texting can be challenging. Early investigation increases the likelihood of preserving phone records and surveillance footage.

The Presumption of Fault in Rear-End Collisions

In most rear-end crashes, the following driver is presumed at fault because they failed to maintain a safe following distance.

However, insurers sometimes attempt to shift blame by arguing that the front driver stopped abruptly or acted unpredictably.

California’s pure comparative negligence rule means that even if you were partially at fault, you can still recover compensation — but your damages may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Strong evidence helps protect you from unfair blame.

How Compensation Is Calculated

If a texting driver caused your rear-end crash, you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses
  
• Future medical treatment
  
• Lost wages
  
• Reduced earning capacity
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Property damage
  

The severity of your injuries and available insurance coverage will affect the total value of your claim.

Why Acting Quickly Is Critical

Phone data can be deleted or overwritten. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras may only be stored for a limited time.

Prompt legal action helps preserve this evidence before it disappears.

Why a Rear End Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Texting-Related Crash

Texting while driving is preventable — and when it causes a rear-end collision, injured victims deserve accountability. A skilled rear end accident lawyer investigates digital evidence, obtains phone records when possible, and challenges insurance companies that try to minimize distracted driving claims.

At Bojat Law Group, we represent victims injured in rear-end crashes caused by distracted drivers. We fight to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and long-term pain.

If you were rear-ended and believe the other driver was texting, call (818) 877-4878 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.