Rear-End Collisions in San Diego: Who’s at Fault and What to Do

By Eugene Bruno on September 16, 2025

Rear-end accidents are some of the most common types of crashes on San Diego’s roads—and they can happen in the blink of an eye.

Whether you’re stopped in traffic on I-5, slowing for a red light in Mission Valley, or navigating rush hour on the 805, a moment of inattention from the driver behind you can result in a damaging collision.

This blog breaks down everything you need to know about rear-end accident fault in San Diego, the legal process for proving negligence, how injuries like whiplash and soft tissue damage are documented, and what you can expect from a settlement.

Establishing Fault After a Rear-End Collision

California law generally presumes that the rear driver is at fault in a rear-end crash. That’s because every driver has a legal duty to follow at a safe distance and be prepared to stop when traffic slows or stops.

In most cases, when a rear-end collision occurs, it’s due to:

• Tailgating
• Distracted driving (e.g., texting)
• Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
• Failure to brake in time due to inattention
• Driving under the influence

While this rear-driver presumption plays a significant role in establishing liability in a rear-end crash, it’s not absolute.

When the Front Driver Might Be at Fault

While rear drivers are usually liable for the accident, there are exceptions where the front driver may share or bear full responsibility, such as:

• Sudden reverse gear engagement
• Brake-checking or intentionally stopping short
• Malfunctioning brake lights
• Suddenly stopping for no reason in active traffic

Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions

Even low-speed rear-end crashes can lead to serious injuries, especially when the impact causes the body to move abruptly. Some of the most frequent injuries we see include:

Whiplash and Neck Strain

Whiplash is a rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, typically caused by the sudden jolt of a rear-end crash. In car accidents, it’s a classic soft tissue injury and can cause:

• Neck and shoulder pain
• Limited range of motion
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping

Back Injuries and Herniated Discs

The spine absorbs a tremendous amount of force during impact. Lower back injuries and disc herniation can develop days after the accident and may result in chronic pain.

Soft Tissue Injuries in California

Soft tissue injuries refer to damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries are hard to detect without detailed medical exams, but can be long-lasting.

Proving Liability in a Rear-End Crash

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we collect strong, detailed evidence to confirm that liability rests squarely with the other party.

Accident Scene Evidence

We gather photos of vehicle positions, road conditions, skid marks, and damage patterns to reconstruct the crash.

Vehicle Damage Reports

The location and severity of damage can tell a story about speed and impact angles, helping determine whether the rear driver had time to react.

Eyewitness Testimony

Neutral third-party accounts can strengthen claims, especially in disputes over sudden stops or turn signals.

Dashcam and Surveillance Footage

Video can be invaluable in showing driving behavior in the moments before the crash.

Cellphone and Driving Records

If the rear driver was texting or using a phone, that can support a claim of distracted driving. We work with accident reconstruction specialists when necessary to provide expert analysis and testimony.

Getting Compensation for Victims of Rear-End Accidents

Injury victims can pursue compensation through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. This includes economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

These cover out-of-pocket expenses such as:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Physical therapy or chiropractic care
• Lost income
• Property damage

For example, if you missed work due to whiplash therapy or needed long-term treatment for a herniated disc, we document and calculate those costs for your car crash compensation claim.

Non-economic Damages

These address intangible losses, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or permanent limitations

Although harder to quantify, these damages are real and legally recognized. Our legal team works to ensure you’re compensated for the full impact of your injury.

Rear-End Settlement Amounts

There’s no one-size-fits-all figure when it comes to rear-end settlement amounts. Settlement value depends on:

• Severity of your injuries
• Duration of treatment
• Fault and available evidence
• Medical documentation and recovery timeline
• Impact on daily life and employment
• Insurance coverage limits

What to Do After a Rear-End Collision in San Diego

Call 911 and Get Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked out by a medical professional helps create a record and rule out hidden trauma.

Document the Scene

Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, damage, skid marks, road signs, and your injuries if visible.

Exchange Information

Gather contact and insurance information from all drivers and any witnesses.

Don’t Admit Fault

Even a polite apology could be misinterpreted. Stick to the facts and wait to speak with your San Diego car accident attorney.

Contact a San Diego Car Accident Lawyer

Do not accept an insurance settlement without legal advice. Rear-end claims are often undervalued, especially when involving soft tissue injuries in California.

Reasons to Choose Eugene Bruno & Associates?

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we know how to build strong rear-end crash claims. Whether your case involves a minor fender bender or a high-impact collision, we’re here to protect your interests.

• 99.7% success rate
• Over 85 years of combined experience
• Tens of millions recovered for injury victims
• Named among San Diego’s Best Personal Injury Lawyers
• Hands-on, compassionate representation for every client

We also work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Speak With Our Trusted Rear-End Accident Attorneys in San Diego

If you were hurt in a rear-end collision in San Diego, don’t try to handle the insurance company on your own. Let the experienced San Diego rear-end car accident attorneys at Eugene Bruno & Associates guide you through the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule your free consultation.