Tempe Rear-End Accident Lawyer Henry Beam

If you’re reading this, chances are you—or someone close to you—was hit from behind in a car crash. First off, we’re sorry you’re dealing with this. Rear-end collisions happen suddenly, without warning, and often leave people stunned, shaken, and unsure of what to do next. Unlike other types of crashes, you rarely see it coming—there’s no time to react, no time to brace. That’s what makes these injuries harder to cope with: your body absorbs force without any preparation.

At Beam Law PLC, we’ve helped countless clients recover compensation after being rear-ended in Tempe and throughout Arizona. What may seem like a "minor" accident can lead to serious, lasting injuries. We’re here to explain what happens to the body, how these cases work, and how we can help you move forward.

What Happens to the Body in a Rear-End Collision

Rear-end collisions unleash sudden forces that the body isn’t designed to handle. Here’s what happens:

1. Forward Acceleration: The struck vehicle is propelled forward, and your seat pushes your torso ahead.

2. Inertia Response: Your head lags behind due to inertia, causing a whip-like motion—first backward, then forward.

3. Neck & Spine Load: The cervical spine endures compression, shear, and torsional stress, especially if your head wasn’t facing forward.

4. Seat Position Matters: Reclined seats, poor headrest positioning, or looking sideways at impact can increase the risk of injury.

Even without visible damage to the vehicle, these forces can create significant trauma to the muscles, joints, nerves, and brain.

Common Injuries After Rear-End Accidents

Whiplash (WAD Grades I–IV)

Whiplash is the most common injury in rear-end crashes. It involves soft tissue strain in the neck and upper back. Symptoms may include:

• Neck pain and stiffness

• Headaches

• Dizziness, nausea, blurred vision

• Tingling in the arms or shoulders

• Sleep issues and fatigue

The Quebec Task Force categorizes whiplash injuries from mild discomfort (Grade I) to fractures and dislocations (Grade IV).

Concussions & Traumatic Brain Injuries

Rear-end crashes can cause concussions or TBIs even without direct head impact. The rapid acceleration-deceleration of the brain inside the skull can lead to:

• Confusion and memory loss

• Slurred speech or ringing in the ears

• Mood changes or emotional instability

• Difficulty focusing or balance issues

Spinal Cord & Disc Injuries

Jolting forces can compress or twist the spine, resulting in:

• Herniated or bulging discs

• Nerve impingement

• Chronic back pain or sciatica

• Loss of mobility or muscle strength

Shoulder, Wrist, and Upper Body Injuries

With your hands often on the steering wheel, rear-end collisions can strain or injure the:

• Shoulders (rotator cuff tears, joint injuries)

• Wrists and arms (sprains, fractures)

• Collarbone or scapula (fractures from seatbelt restraint)

Delayed Symptoms Are Real

It’s common for symptoms to show up hours—or even days—after the crash. Endorphins released in the moment can mask pain. Common delayed symptoms include:

• Neck and back pain

• Headaches and dizziness

• Numbness or tingling in extremities

• Sleep disruptions and fatigue

Don’t dismiss discomfort just because it wasn’t immediate. Always get checked by a medical professional, and don’t rush into a settlement with the insurance company.

Low-Speed Doesn’t Mean Low Risk

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a slow crash means no injury. That’s simply not always the case:

• A study found some occupants involved in crashes at just 2.5 to 5 mph suffered soft tissue injuries.

• Another study showed 21% of participants reported neck strain in rear-end collisions under 10 mph.

• Some injuries require weeks or months to fully manifest.

Even if your vehicle only has minor cosmetic damage, your body may have absorbed forces far beyond what the bumper reflects.

Factors That Affect Injury Severity

Several elements can affect how your body responds to a rear-end collision:

• Speed at Impact: Even a small change in velocity (delta-V) can transfer major energy to the spine.

• Seat & Headrest Position: Misaligned headrests or reclined seats can expose your neck to more severe motion.

• Body Position: If your head was turned or tilted at impact (talking, checking blind spot), you’re more likely to experience torsional injuries.

What Compensation Can Cover

Depending on your injuries and recovery needs, compensation may include:

• Medical bills (including delayed treatment)

• Physical therapy, chiropractic care

• Pain and suffering

• Lost income and reduced earning potential

• Long-term care or disability accommodations

Why Choose Beam Law PLC

We take rear-end accident claims seriously because we understand how quickly they can derail your life. Our team:

• Knows the science behind whiplash, concussion, and spinal injuries

• Works with medical experts to validate your symptoms and support your claim

• Pushes back hard against insurers who downplay your experience

• Charges nothing unless you win

Get Help After a Rear-End Collision in Tempe

You don’t have to go through this alone. If you’ve been rear-ended—even at low speed—don’t wait to get help. Contact Beam Law PLC for a free case review. We’ll explain your options, protect your rights, and help you pursue the recovery you deserve.