Top Rear-End Accident Lawyers

A rear-end collision involves one car hitting the back of another car. Such car accidents involve the rear-end driver traveling at a higher rate of speed than the driver in front. Sometimes, the driver in front was at a complete stop at the time of the collision. Other times, the driver in the back was traveling at a higher rate of speed than the vehicle in front.

These types of crashes often occur at traffic lights, crosswalks, and stop signs, but can just as easily occur on rural highways with trucks, city streets, and even parking lots. They are among the most common types of collisions on the road.

What to expect after getting hit from behind?

There are so many different things to expect after a rear-end accident. Even knowing what to do (and not to do) can be confusing. Perhaps the best way to approach a serious accident like a rear-end collision is to expect the unexpected. That’s because each collision presents its unique challenges and obstacles.

In general, expect to be in pain after your rear-end accident. You can also expect to encounter a lot of legal hassles, especially since some people don’t take these types of crashes seriously. Sometimes, dealing with the other driver can be difficult. Other times, it’s the at-fault driver’s insurance company that’s the problem. Whatever the circumstances, an experienced rear-end accident lawyer can help.

Do I need a lawyer after being rear-ended?

The short answer? Yes. Even though many crashes might seem simple at first, the reality is many injury claims or lawsuits can quickly turn into complicated legal cases.

That’s why it’s important to have an experienced attorney for rear-end accidents representing you after your collision. Otherwise, you might not get the financial compensation you rightfully deserve for your injury-related expenses.

How long does it take to settle a rear-end accident?

Unfortunately, there’s no set time limit when it comes to resolving a rear-end accident claim. You might receive a settlement offer a few days after your accident. But you should be careful about agreeing to accept a settlement offer right away. In many cases, the initial offer is a “lowball” figure that doesn’t cover all your accident-related expenses. This is why many settlements can be done in 30 to 90 days or take up to several years. 

This is why you should take your time before settling your case. Because once you do, that’s it. You can’t come back months or years later and ask for more money. This is also one of the reasons why you should hire an attorney. They can help you review any settlement offers and decide whether to accept them, request more money, or file a rear-end accident lawsuit.

Average rear-end accident settlement values

The average settlement value of a rear-end accident can vary based on many things including the severity of injuries, insurance coverage, and liability. It is not uncommon for a rear-end accident settlement to average between $5,000 and $20,000. However, there are many cases where severe injuries can lead to much higher settlements. 

For example, a car was stopped at a red light in New York City when it was rear-ended by a drunk driver. The impact of the collision caused the driver of the stopped car to suffer a broken arm, ligament damage, a concussion, and other injuries. The driver of the stopped car filed a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver, seeking a settlement of $1 million dollars to cover the costs of medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages. After negotiations, the parties were able to reach a settlement in which the drunk driver agreed to pay the driver of the stopped car $1 million dollars in exchange for a release of all claims. The settlement allowed the injured driver to receive the financial compensation needed to cover the costs of their injuries and provided some measure of justice for the harm caused by the drunk driver's actions.

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In most cases, the driver from behind who hits the driver in front is the at-fault driver. However, there can be certain, rare circumstances when the rear driver might not be responsible for causing the collision; for instance, if the crash was caused by a defective vehicle or the front vehicle was illegally parked in a low-visibility location. This is why it’s important to consult with an experienced rear-end accident lawyer who can investigate your accident and explain your legal options.

Will getting rear-ended increase my insurance?

Unfortunately, the answer may be yes. While you may think that getting rear-ended won’t increase your insurance premium because you weren’t at fault, insurance companies consider many different factors when determining someone’s car insurance rate. And if an insurance company believes someone is more likely to be involved in a car accident, that person’s insurance rates could go up, even after a not-at-fault accident.

This is why crash victims should never take anything for granted after an accident. The best way to protect your rights and learn more about your legal options is to talk to an experienced rear-end accident lawyer licensed to practice law in the state where your collision took place.

A Law.com Rear-End Accident Lawyer can meet with you, free of charge. They can answer any questions you might have and explain your legal options.

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The vast majority of hit-from-behind accidents are caused by the driver in the back. One NHTSA study cited by The Washington Post noted that 87 percent of rear-end accidents occurred because “the driver simply wasn’t paying attention to the road.” Other common causes include:

• Speeding
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Texting while driving
• Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Falling asleep at the wheel
• Driving too fast in hazardous weather conditions

What percentage of accidents are rear-end accidents?

Exact numbers vary from year to year. But in general, rear-end accidents account for 29 percent of all motor vehicle accidents on the road, according to an in-depth study conducted by the NHTSA.

“Rear-end crashes are the most frequently occurring type of collision, accounting for approximately 29 percent of all crashes and resulting in a substantial number of injuries and fatalities each year,” according to the executive summary for the NHTSA rear-end collision study.

What percentage of rear-end accidents happen on a highway or red light?

In general, rear-end accidents occur more often at intersections of any kind (traffic lights, stop signs, highway exit ramps, etc.) than non-intersections. Over 60 percent of crashes occurred in intersections and intersection-related locations.

More than 50 percent of rear-end collisions involve vehicles traveling less than 10 mph, according to a NHTSA study. So, it’s clear that the majority of these crashes don’t happen on highways, and those that do occur are often at low speeds in heavy traffic. But, again, they can happen on any type of road.

How to avoid getting rear-ended

Traffic safety experts have a variety of suggested tips for avoiding causing or being involved in a rear-end accident. Such tips include:

• Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road.
• Drive defensively and be prepared for the unexpected.
• Check your car mirrors, especially if you’re planning to change lanes or make a turn.
• Always use your turn signal, whether you’re changing lanes on a highway or making a left turn or right turn at an intersection.
• Use your hazard lights appropriately when stopped or pulled over, especially in low-visibility conditions.
• Make sure your brake lights and taillights are properly maintained.

However, there’s only so much you can do to avoid getting hit. You can’t control the car behind you. If you do get rear-ended, you need to know your legal rights and get medical attention right away.

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Being hit from behind can cause very serious injuries. Some of the most common – and most serious – injuries include:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Whiplash
• Concussion
• Leg & Knee Injuries
• Chest Injuries

Other common injuries involve pain in other parts of the body, including shoulder pain, chest pain, and abdominal pain. Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding, are less common but can be very serious and life-threatening in certain circumstances.

Should I see a doctor or go to a hospital?

Whether you decide to see a doctor or go straight to a hospital after your rear-end accident will depend on the severity of your injury. What matters is you should seek medical attention as soon as possible after your accident. Even if you feel fine, you could have a serious or life-threatening injury (including internal bleeding and certain serious head injuries) and not even realize it. This is why you should see a doctor right away.

Injuries after minor/low-speed rear-end accidents (fender bender)

You might think that low-speed rear-end accidents don’t result in serious injuries. But even minor fender benders can cause injuries to drivers and passengers, especially in the car in front. Such injuries can include whiplash, neck pain, and other types of neck injuries. Back pain, shoulder pain and injuries in other parts of the body are common as well.

If something doesn’t feel right, see a doctor as soon as possible after your accident. That way, you can get the medical care and support you need to fully recover. Otherwise, your injury or pain might get worse and could turn into a long-term medical problem like chronic pain.

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Law.com is a go-to resource for individuals who have been rear-ended and are in search of a top-notch lawyer to represent them. By reaching out to Law.com, they can connect with a premier attorney specializing in rear-end accident cases in their vicinity. These attorneys possess extensive experience in dealing with car accident injuries, ensuring that clients receive the highest level of legal representation. Law.com's premier lawyers offer complimentary consultations, providing an opportunity for individuals to discuss their case and receive expert guidance tailored to their unique circumstances.

The Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone

The Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone is a distinguished firm located at 2 Oliver St, #608, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. With a remarkable presence in 18 locations throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut, they are well-positioned to serve clients from Worcester, Springfield, Holyoke, Chicopee, Greenfield, Framingham, Ware, and other areas in Massachusetts. They also have offices in Connecticut, including Hartford, New Britain, Willimantic, Manchester, New Haven, Norwich, Torrington, and Waterbury. Having recovered over $500,000,000 in Awards, Verdicts, Benefits, and Settlements, the firm is renowned for its impressive track record. Notably, the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone has an in-house courtroom designed specifically for jury testing cases, showcasing their dedication to securing favorable outcomes. They handle various types of auto accident cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents, recognizing the significant losses victims face in such incidents.

Shebell & Shebell, LLC

Shebell & Shebell, LLC, located at 655 Shrewsbury Avenue, Suite 314, Shrewsbury, New Jersey 07702, has been providing assistance to individuals who have suffered injuries on the job or due to negligence, including rear-end accidents, since its establishment in 1927. Their legacy is marked by the contributions of Thomas F. Shebell, Jr., who joined the firm in the early 1960s and later became a Superior Court judge. After serving in the judiciary for 26 years, Judge Shebell returned to the firm in an "of counsel" capacity until his passing in May 2022. Shebell & Shebell, LLC focuses on workers' compensation cases, personal injury cases, medical malpractice, and slip and fall cases. Attorney Thomas F. Shebell, III holds the prestigious distinction of being Board Certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as a Civil Trial Attorney, an honor attained by only around 2% of lawyers in the state.

The Leigh Law Firm, P.C.

The Leigh Law Firm, P.C., situated at 321 Millburn Ave Suite 12, Millburn, New Jersey, is dedicated to assisting personal injury victims across New Jersey and New York. Founded by Attorney David Leigh in 2018, who has been practicing law since 2006, the firm brings extensive litigation experience to its clients. The Leigh Law Firm, P.C. offers free consultations, ensuring individuals have the opportunity to discuss their case without financial constraints. Their areas of expertise encompass car accidents, rear-end accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, premises liability, and other personal injury cases. Notably, they have achieved outstanding results, including a $2,000,000 settlement for a contractor severely electrocuted while working, a $120,000 settlement for a plaintiff injured in an NYC museum fall, and a $120,000 settlement for a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle while using a marked crosswalk.

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC

Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC, located at 20 E Broad St, Suite 1000, Columbus, Ohio 43215, is an aggressive personal injury law firm serving West Virginia and Ohio. Founded in 2007 through their Charleston office, the firm handles a range of cases, including personal injury, car accidents, truck accidents, nursing home abuse and neglect, and medical malpractice. Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC offers free consultations and operates on a contingency fee basis, ensuring that clients only pay if they win their case. With over $200,000,000 recovered in Awards, Verdicts, Benefits, and Settlements, the firm has a proven record of success. Led by attorneys Jonathan Mani, Damon Ellis, and Bernard Layne III, all of whom are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Mani Ellis & Layne, PLLC comprises an elite group of top-performing injury lawyers. Additionally, each partner holds the highest possible peer-review rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, AV Preeminent®, in personal injury law.

Weinstein Law

Weinstein Law, located at 518 E. Tyler St, Suite 100, Athens, Texas 75751, is headed by Attorney Jeff Weinstein, who established the law office in Henderson County over 20 years ago. Committed to helping individuals in his home region, Weinstein Law handles rear-end collision cases and the associated injuries, such as back pain, neck pain, and whiplash. Attorney Jeff Weinstein is well-versed in challenging insurance companies and their legal teams, often negotiating settlements that meet the needs of his clients. Beyond his legal work, Jeff actively gives back to the community, spearheading initiatives such as Created Henderson County Now, a free online information service, and the Silver Screen Movie Club, which offers free movies to seniors in exchange for canned goods donations. He also supports various local events, educates teens on the dangers of distracted driving, and received recognition as the Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year in 2013 from the American Association for Justice.

Jacoby & Meyers

Jacoby & Meyers, located at 10900 Wilshire Blvd 15th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90024, is recognized as America's leading full-service consumer law firm. Established in 1972 in Van Nuys, they have since expanded their presence to include regional independent law offices in Alabama, Florida, New York, Southern California, and Washington, DC. With a team of over 300 attorneys spread across 130+ offices, Jacoby & Meyers specializes in various practice areas, including personal injury, rear-end accidents, and product liability. Founded by Leonard Jacoby and Stephen Meyers, the firm boasts a bilingual team and an impressive list of recent top cases, such as a $250,000 settlement for an automobile accident, a $37,392,000 award for a pedestrian knockdown case, a $5,200,000 award for an automobile accident, and a $1,800,000 settlement in a wrongful death case.

Clancy & Diaz, LLP

Clancy & Diaz, LLP, located at 3000 Citrus Cir, Suite 215, Walnut Creek, California 94598, was founded in 2007 by attorneys Pete Clancy and Precilla Diaz. This dynamic husband-and-wife duo proudly serves the legal needs of Walnut Creek, Antioch, and the Bay Area. Known for their hard work and results-driven approach, Clancy & Diaz fights fervently for the rights of injury victims. With offices in Walnut Creek, Antioch, and Pittsburg, California, they bring extensive knowledge to every case they handle in California's East Bay. Pete Clancy, an exceptional personal injury attorney, serves on the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association and actively contributes to improving the legal community through various initiatives.

Smith & Hassler

Smith & Hassler, located at 1225 N Loop W, #525, Houston, Texas 77008, is an esteemed law firm founded in 1989 by copartners Michael Smith and Albert M. Hassler III. Known as aggressive advocates for the injured, the firm is dedicated to protecting clients' rights and fiercely advocating for their best interests. Operating on a contingency fee basis, Smith & Hassler represents clients with no upfront costs, and they only receive payment if they secure a favorable outcome. With a strong reputation built over 30 years, the firm has been serving Houston and all of Texas. Notable rear-end accident cases include a $330,000 settlement for a client who required lumbar spine surgery and a $137,000 settlement for a client rear-ended by an 18-wheeler, necessitating herniated lumbar disc surgery.