Rear-End Car Accidents

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Facts and Statistics

Of the six million automobile crashes that take place on American roadways each year, more than 40% are rear-end car accidents. Though most of these accidents take place at speeds below 10 miles per hour, serious injuries are inevitable. Victims injured in crashes caused by distracted or negligent drivers are entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end car accident caused by the negligence of another driver, contact our experienced team of personal injury attorneys at Schnipper Law. Our office is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call (404)-983-6051 to learn more.

Causes of Rear-End Car Accidents

Automobile accidents are caused by a variety of factors, including inclement weather, low visibility, and poor road conditions. However, many rear-end accidents are caused by negligent drivers, responsible for:

• Road Rage
• Tailgating
• Drowsy Driving
• Ignoring Signs or Signals
• Speeding
• Texting and Driving
• Driving While Intoxicated

If a driver crashes into another vehicle while taking part in any of these dangerous decisions, those injured are entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

Determining Fault

Typically, in the state of Georgia, the driver of the “back” vehicle is assumed responsible for rear-end car accidents, since that driver is required to leave room for deceleration. There are, however, exceptions to this rule.

For example, if the “front” driver made an unsafe lane change or an illegal stop, that driver can be held accountable. You’ll need to speak to an experienced car accident attorney to determine whether or not you have a case against the other driver involved in your accident.

Steps to Take Following an Accident

If you’ve been injured or involved in a rear-end automobile accident, the following steps are essential to your well-being and your legal case:

• Step 1: Never leave the scene of the accident, even if you haven’t been injured.
• Step 2: Pull your vehicle to the side of the roadway. If you cannot move your vehicle, extricate yourself and move to the shoulder or sidewalk. You should not move if you feel pressure in your back or neck.
• Step 3: Contact police and emergency responders. While you wait for assistance to arrive, help anyone else injured in the crash.
• Step 4: When police officers arrive, collect their names and badge numbers. Request a written report. You’ll need a copy of this report for your personal injury case, should you choose to file one.
• Step 5: If you see potential witnesses, collect their names and phone numbers.
• Step 6: Assuming you have a smartphone, take photos of damage done to yourself or your vehicle. These images will help your insurance company determine how much damage has been done. It will also paint a clear picture of your experience in a court of law.
• Step 7: Keep close records of your medical treatment, including the names and phone numbers of all medical professionals you encounter.
• Step 8: Contact an experienced personal injury attorney for assistance in filing a rear-end car accident lawsuit. If you refuse to speak to a professional, you may not receive compensation for your past and future medical expenses.

Types of Compensation 

While injuries in rear-end car accidents are rarely life-threatening, they can be serious. The following types of compensation are available to victims through a successful lawsuit or fair settlement:

• Property Damage – If your personal property has been damaged, you are entitled to reimbursement. This includes electronics, vehicle repairs, clothing, and other items on your person.
• Lost Wages – If you missed work for several days or weeks during your recovery, lost wages may be included in your compensation award.
• Long-Term Care – If your injuries are permanent and require lifelong care, the defendant may be required to cover some or all of your expenses.
• Past and Future Medical Bills – If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, you’ll likely receive payment for past and future medical expenses.

Rear-End Car Accident Prevention 

To prevent rear-end car accidents, follow these tips:

• Always use turn signals.
• Change lanes, rather than escalating the problem, if someone is tailgating you.
• Frequently check to see the roadway behind you.
• Avoid the blind spots of other drivers.
• Check your brake lights frequently.

Contact an Experienced Atlanta Personal Injury Attorney for Representation

No one deserves to suffer because another driver was negligent on the roadway.

In the state of Georgia, you have two years to file a personalinjury lawsuit. Once this window closes, you can never receive compensation for your injuries. For this reason, consider contacting an attorney as soon as possible.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end car accident caused by the carelessness of another driver, contact our team of experienced attorneys at Schnipper Law for assistance in filing a personal injury lawsuit. While you focus on recovering, we’ll focus on fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call (404)-983-6051 to learn more.