What Are Pain and Suffering Damages in a Rear-End Collision?

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Key Takeaway:

Pain and suffering after a rear-end collision can include long-term physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from an injury.

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Rear-end collisions are more common than you think. In 2019, they made up 32.5% of all motor vehicle accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Many people assume these crashes are “minor.” But even a seemingly small rear-end accident can result in serious pain and suffering—physically, emotionally, and financially.

What Counts as Pain and Suffering?

“Pain and suffering” refers to the non-economic damages you experience after an accident—meaning the invisible costs that still affect your life in a big way.

These can include:

• Chronic physical pain or long-term discomfort

• Limited mobility or independence

• Anxiety, depression, or emotional trauma

• Sleep disturbances or nightmares

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Loss of enjoyment of life or hobbies

Pain and suffering can stem directly from the types of injuries commonly seen in rear-end collisions—injuries that don’t just heal with a trip to the ER.

How Common Rear-End Collision Injuries Cause Pain and Suffering

Let’s take a closer look at how the most frequent injuries in rear-end collisions lead to long-term pain and suffering:

Whiplash
A classic injury from rear-end crashes, whiplash can leave you with lingering neck pain, reduced range of motion, and recurring headaches—all of which make daily life more difficult and painful.

Concussions
Mild traumatic brain injuries can cause brain fog, mood changes, and sensitivity to light or noise—which can be frustrating and emotionally draining for both the injured person and their family.

Back Injuries
Pain in the lower back or spine can make it hard to work, drive, or sleep. These injuries often lead to chronic discomfort or mobility issues, which directly affect your quality of life.

Internal Injuries
Not all damage is visible. Internal bleeding or organ trauma can mean long hospital stays, intensive treatment, and severe emotional distress—especially if the injuries are life-threatening.

Injured in a Rear-End Collision? Call Shaw.

Rear-end collisions can do more damage than you realize. If you’ve been hurt, you may be entitled to compensation for both your financial losses and your pain and suffering.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case evaluation with a San Antonio personal injury attorney. No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

We look forward to serving you.