Rear-end car accidents are the most common type of collision and can have numerous consequences. Around 28% of all car crashes are rear-ended collisions, most minor; however, they often result in significant injuries, property damage, and time-consuming recovery processes.
What is a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end car accident occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the back of another, often leaving serious damage to the vehicle and passengers inside. These can occur from 1-20 mph to over 70 mph. Because of varying speeds and vehicle types, each accident looks different. Yet, it is important to consult a personal injury attorney as they can help navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive possible compensation for your injury.
What to do if you are involved in a rear-end collision?
Stay calm and assess the situation.
It is important to stay calm after a car accident, even if it is difficult. Getting upset or angry will not help the situation and may make it worse. Once you have calmed down, take a moment to assess the situation. This includes checking yourself and your passengers for injuries, as well as checking the other vehicles involved in the accident.
Do not admit fault.
There are many reasons why you should not admit fault after a rear-end collision. First, it is not always clear who is at fault. Even if you believe there were factors that may make you at fault, it is important for the police and medical professionals to assess the incident because they may find alternative reasoning that may show the other driver was at fault or fault is shared. Also, admitting fault can limit your legal options further down the road. Immediately admitting fault can prevent you from potentially suing the other driver for your losses and limit the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.
Contact the police.
In the case of a rear-end collision, you must contact the police right away. Getting the police will ensure that details of the accident are filed in a police report. This report will include information on the individuals involved in the accident, the amount of damage, and if any injuries occurred, and can help determine who is at fault for the accident. These are all important details if you file a lawsuit against the other driver. The police are also trained professionals who know how to help in these situations and can provide safety and security to anyone involved in the incident.
Take pictures of the accident.
Along with the proof of a police report, actual scene images can help determine who is at fault and get the correct compensation. Pictures can clarify the damage to the vehicles and show the exact location of the incident, which can define how the incident happened. Images have also been used to identify witnesses, reveal road conditions, and other useful details about the incident. Taking pictures can also help you remember details about the incident that you may forget later. Car accidents are shocking, and recalling memories from shocking times can often become hazy. Pictures can ensure that you remember clearly what happened, which can be crucial in the legal process.
Exchange information with the other driver.
Information from the other driver is necessary when filing a claim with an insurance company so you can receive proper compensation for the accident. To do so, the companies require the driver’s insurance company and their name, address, and driver’s license number. These are necessary to get the compensation you are entitled to. This is also an important step after an accident if you are at fault. If so, you can be held liable for injuries. If the other driver sues, you need their contact information to defend yourself legally.
Seek medical attention.
Sometimes injuries like whiplash are not apparent immediately after an accident; this is why seeking medical attention is crucial even if you do not feel hurt. Visiting a doctor will identify any injuries or signs of possible future injuries related to the accident and provide treatment. Additionally, seeking medical attention will document any injuries as well. Documentation is highly beneficial when filing a claim with an insurance company and can make you entitled to higher compensation.
Contact an attorney.
The repercussions of a car accident can frequently be stressful and confusing. Contacting an attorney will help ease any stress you have about receiving compensation to cover bills and adjustments related to the accident. Personal injury attorneys know the legal process and will protect your rights, and you understand the process. Attorneys can also save you from being misguided by insurance companies. Sometimes an insurance company may try to offer you a settlement that is less than what you deserve; in this case, an attorney will work to negotiate a fair price you are entitled to.
Rear-end Accidents in Florida
Orlando Rear-End Car Accidents – Hiring a Lawyer
In 2020, there were over 300,000 rear-end accidents in Florida, accounting for about 30% of all car accidents in the state. (FLHSMV – 2021)
In Orlando, Florida, rear-end car accidents are common on the busy roads of our vibrant city. These accidents happen when one vehicle collides with the back of another, often leading to property damage and personal injuries. The city’s heavy traffic and fast-paced lifestyle contribute to such incidents. In the aftermath of a rear-end collision, determining liability becomes crucial in seeking compensation for the affected parties. Victims may have to deal with medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and potential legal challenges. It is essential for drivers in Orlando to stay attentive, maintain a safe following distance, and exercise caution on the roads to help prevent these types of accidents.
Florida is a No-Fault State
Consequently, drivers are required to have Personal Injury Protection insurance (PIP), which covers their medical expenses and other accident-related damages, regardless of who was at fault for the collision.
Injured drivers can pursue legal action for pain and suffering. Still, such claims usually require exceptionally severe injuries surpassing a specific threshold. As a result, most drivers typically depend on their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy to cover expenses in such situations.
Not all cases are cut and dry.
A rear-end collision is one of the most severe accidents that drivers rarely anticipate.
Since rear-end accidents typically assume automatic fault on the other driver’s part, many individuals think they don’t require a lawyer. Don’t be misled by this thought…
Often drivers think, “Why should I share my settlement with a lawyer when the situation appears cut and dry.” The other driver was following way too close, “tailgating,” and then rear-ended your car, injuring you. It seems like the conclusion is straightforward.
But it’s not…
Maximizing Compensation in Rear-End Accidents: Navigating Legal Intricacies and Standing Up to Insurance Giants
In the event of a rear-end collision, your injuries could range from minor whiplash to a more severe condition like a broken neck. While liability might be presumed for the driver who rear-ended you, their attorney may attempt to argue mitigating circumstances and downplay the severity of your injuries to reduce the damages sought.
The concept here is that while liability is established, the amount to be paid out varies on a sliding scale. Insurance adjusters use their own internal assessments to determine the severity of injuries, and you must clearly demonstrate seriousness and impact of your injuries.
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end car accident, you need someone by your side who truly understands the intricacies of the legal process. I’ve navigated through this detailed procedure many times and am experienced in standing up to the giant legal teams from the large insurance companies. In my experience, the lawyers with these insurance providers don’t have your best interest in mind. They are incentivised to settle your case for as little as possible. When you hire me as your attorney to help you with your rear-end injury case, I will fight to get you the best compensation for your injuries.
If you’ve been hur in a rear-end car crash, call me to discuss situation. I will provide an initial evaluation for free and if we take on your case, you pay nothing until we win your case.