A collision where the front bumper of one vehicle strikes the rear bumper of another. This usually happens when the leading vehicle brakes suddenly or the following driver is distracted and fails to maintain a safe stopping distance. It frequently results in whiplash injuries and damage to the radiator, grille, and trunk.
I had to slam on the brakes for a stray dog and the guy behind me ended up rear-ending my truck.
In most jurisdictions, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is automatically presumed at fault for following too closely.
Related terms
Brake check
A sudden, deliberate application of the brakes to force a trailing driver to slow down or take evasive action.
Two-second rule
A defensive driving guideline for maintaining a safe following distance.
Tailpipe
The final section of an exhaust system that vents combustion gases into the atmosphere.