Hurt in a Rear-End Crash? Call Our Atlanta Injury Lawyers
Approximately 1.7 million rear-end collisions happen in the US annually. Although damage from these crashes ranges from minimal to severe, you could be entitled to compensation if someone’s negligence caused you injury or harm.
Getting maximum compensation might be challenging without help. Ensure you have a reputable rear-end accident lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia, to advocate for you. With a history of fighting for Georgia car accident victims and a record for securing fair and full compensation, you can reach The Champion Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.C. online or at 404-498-4314. We offer 100% free initial consultations and no cost until we win.
Atlanta Rear-End Car Accidents
Rear-end collisions happen when a vehicle slams into the back of the vehicle in front of them. Rear-end crashes most frequently occur due to driver negligence. Some examples of such negligence include:
- Following too closely
- Distracted driving
- Driving over the speed limit
- The leading driver making sudden stops
- Inclement weather
- Aggressive driving
- Driving while fatigued
- Defective or malfunctioning brake lights
In some instances, defective auto parts or dangerous road conditions could also contribute to the accident. You might have grounds for a claim against a third party who shares some liability for the crash.
Injuries Common in Rear-End Accidents
The types of injuries frequently seen in rear-end auto accidents are often debilitating. Many assume rear-end collisions are some of the least severe types of accidents. However, this is not the case.
People hurt in a rear-end collision often experience the following:
- Whiplash
- Concussion
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Emotional trauma
When your injuries prevent you from living normally, you may have the right to compensation for your losses.
Who is Responsible for Rear-End Crashes?
In most rear-end collisions, the driver that hit you is at fault. Motorists must maintain a safe stopping distance. But drivers could be distracted, drunk, violating traffic rules and regulations, or otherwise driving unsafely.
On the other hand, sometimes drivers are not the only party responsible for causing a rear-end collision. For example, if a drunk driver caused a rear-end collision, the dram shop that oversold or served them alcohol could share the blame if the drunk driver was visibly intoxicated or impaired when they were served.
Suppose improper or missing street signs or other dangerous road conditions contributed to your rear-end collision. In that case, you might also have grounds for a claim against the GDOT, government-contracted road construction workers, safety inspectors, and other third parties.
An in-depth investigation into the collision will help your car accident attorney determine who is responsible for your injuries and ensure you are compensated fairly for your damages.
Liability in Rear-End Accidents
A few elements are necessary to prove liability in a Georgia rear-end car accident. First, we must establish the defendant's duty of care. All motorists must drive safely and prevent injury to themselves, others, and passengers.
Next, you must show that the defendant breached this duty of care by failing to exercise reasonable caution. For example, if they were following too closely or distracted, this would be considered a breach. An attorney can help prove this breach by introducing police reports, witness testimony, and, if available, vehicle black box data analysis.
Finally, you must submit copies of medical records and physician statements to show how much your injuries have affected your life. This will go a long way in showing that the elements of negligence have been reached and that you are entitled to the compensation you are seeking in your rear-end accident claim.
Compensation for a Rear-End Car Accident
You have the right to be repaid for all losses after a rear-end collision. You should be compensated for your monetary damages and how you have been affected emotionally and physically. You can seek damages for your:
- Chronic pain
- Emotional distress
- Loss of income
- Reduced earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Healthcare expenses
- Vehicle repairs
Rear-End Car Accident Settlements
Compensation for a rear-end crash typically comes as an insurance settlement. However, in some cases, filing a lawsuit and going through a trial may be necessary to recover the maximum amount possible. Multiple factors can impact the amount you are awarded and how long it takes to settle a rear-end collision. Some of these factors include:
- Whether you share fault for the accident
- If multiple parties are responsible for your injuries
- The two-year statute of limitations for Georgia personal injury claims
- Whether the driver that hit you is insured
- Whether you purchased no-fault insurance coverage
- Whether you purchased uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage
Safety Tips to Avoid Rear-End Accidents
When drivers practice defensive driving, they are more likely to prevent collisions. The Champion Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.C. is here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve after being rear-ended. However, you should avoid collisions at all costs.
Follow these tips to minimize the risk of a rear-end collision.
- Always use your turn signal in advance of changing lanes
- Be sure to check blind spots before changing lanes
- Be sure to leave enough stopping distance between you and other vehicles
- Drive at safe speeds in dangerous weather conditions
- Stay focused on driving and avoid cognitive, manual, or visual distractions
- Brake early when approaching a red light or stop sign
- Always decelerate gradually so the drivers behind you can anticipate your stop
- Check your vehicle before driving to ensure brake lights are functioning
- Always be aware of your surroundings and others’ driving behaviors
- Be aware of the potential for hazard signs or sudden stopping, such as in rush-hour traffic
Ultimately, no matter how safe of a driver you are, you cannot prevent others from engaging in unsafe driving practices. If you are struck from behind in a rear-end car accident, contact our Atlanta car accident lawyers at The Champion Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.C. to discuss your legal options.
Call a Rear-End Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, GA
The effects of a rear-end accident may be long-lasting and frustrating. Fortunately, these challenges may be easier to manage when you have a dedicated legal advocate. Accessing the compensation you are entitled to can go a long way in helping you cover your expenses and recover – physically and financially.
Contact an Atlanta rear-end accident lawyer at The Champion Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.C. for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call 404-498-4314 or fill out our form.