Do I Need a Lawyer for a Rear-End Accident?

Whiplash is the most common injury caused by rear-end collisions. This type of injury happens when the head and neck are violently jolted forward and backward during impact. It can lead to neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and potential long-term complications.

Other common injuries caused by rear-end collisions include:

• Soft tissue injuries: The impact of a rear-end accident can lead to muscle damage in the neck, back, and shoulders. This can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Concussion: Sudden acceleration and deceleration can result in a concussion, even without direct impact. Symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, and headaches.
• Spinal injuries: Rear-end collisions can cause compression fractures, herniated discs, or other spinal injuries, which may lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the limbs.
• Fractures: Bones in the body can be broken, particularly in high-speed rear-end accidents.

The time it takes to settle a rear-end collision depends on:

• The extent of your injuries.
• The willingness of the at-fault driver’s insurance company to negotiate.
• Whether or not your case goes to trial.

In simpler cases with minor injuries and straightforward liability, a settlement can be reached in a matter of weeks to a few months. However, more complex cases can take several months or even years to settle, especially if they go to trial.

If you’re struck in a rear-end collision, it’s important that you take immediate action to build a solid claim. First, assess the situation and check on all parties involved for injuries. If anyone has sustained a severe or life-threatening injury, contact emergency services right away. 

Then, call the police and wait for them to arrive. While waiting, gather witnesses’ names and contact details. Also, take pictures of the crash scene and include vehicle damage and visible injuries.

Should I get a lawyer for a minor car accident?

Yes! It’s important to get an experienced lawyer for a minor car accident. Even a rear-end accident can cost you thousands of dollars in medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage.

No matter how minor your car accident may seem, handling it alone can be risky. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will likely use tactics to keep their costs down. That includes offering a quick, lowball settlement in hopes that you’ll accept it.

However, lowball rear-end personal injury settlements often don’t cover all your damages. Once you accept a settlement, you won’t be able to pursue additional compensation. Let an experienced rear-end accident lawyer negotiate for a fair settlement that covers the full extent of your damages.

Rear-end collision settlements typically range from a few thousand dollars to around $20,000. But that’s just a ballpark figure. Placing an accurate value on your rear-end accident claim isn’t always a straightforward process. 

The value of your claim depends on the extent of your injuries, property damage, lost wages, and impact on your quality of life. Only an experienced car accident lawyer can accurately value your claim and determine how much money you’re eligible for in damages.

If you were involved in a collision, get an experienced attorney on your side who knows how to negotiate for maximum rear-end personal injury settlements. An attorney can investigate your rear-end collision and gather important facts to support your claim. That includes witness statements, police reports, photos, video footage, and crash reconstruction.

An attorney can also help you recover damages accrued from your collision. That includes medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering. With an experienced attorney in your corner, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will never be able to take advantage of you. Your attorney will handle all communications and negotiations with them.

If your attorney can’t reach a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, they’ll be prepared to take your case to trial. In the courtroom, they’ll present the evidence and provide a compelling argument before a judge and jury.

Consult with a Law.com Premier Attorney in your area

Not sure what to do after a rear-end accident? A Law.com Premier Car Accident lawyer will be glad to help you explore your legal options during a free consultation. They will also answer any questions you bring to the table.

Plus, they operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless they recover full compensation for you. To get started, contact a rear-end accident lawyer in your area and schedule a free consultation.