Being rear-ended can happen to anyone at any time and can cause serious damage to your vehicle and body. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions account for around 29% of all car accidents. While some rear-end accidents are minor, others can be more serious and cause injuries that require medical attention. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know if you've been rear-ended, including what to do immediately after the accident, how to file a claim, and how to get medical help.

What Is Rear-Ending?

Rear-ending is a car accident where one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle. It can happen for various reasons, including distracted driving, following too closely, or sudden stops. Rear-end collisions can range from minor to severe and can cause damage to the vehicles involved and injuries to the drivers and passengers.

What to Do If You've Been Rear Ended

If you've been rear-ended, you should first check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if you don't feel any pain, it's important to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure you haven't sustained any injuries that might not be immediately apparent. Once you've assessed your condition, check on the other vehicle's driver to ensure they're also okay.

Rear Ended: What Are Your Legal Rights?

You may be entitled to compensation for damages or injuries if you've been rear-ended. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may be able to file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company or file a lawsuit to recover damages. Speaking with a qualified attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options is important.

How to File a Claim After Being Rear Ended

If you've been rear-ended, you must file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to recover damages. This process can be complex and time-consuming, so it's important to be prepared and seek an experienced attorney's help. When filing your claim, include all relevant information, such as the date and time of the accident, the names and contact information of any witnesses, and any medical bills or other expenses you've incurred due to the accident.

Rear Ended: Who Is at Fault?

Determining fault in a rear-end collision can be complicated, as multiple factors may be at play. In general, the driver who crashes into the back of another vehicle is considered at fault. However, extenuating circumstances like road conditions or weather could impact the case's outcome. Ultimately, the best way to determine fault is to speak with an experienced attorney who can review the details of your case and help you understand your legal options.

Common Injuries from Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end accidents can cause injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries requiring medical attention. Some common injuries that can result from a rear-end accident include:

• Whiplash: This is one of the most common rear-end accident injuries. Whiplash occurs when the neck is jerked back and forth suddenly, causing strain and damage to the muscles and ligaments in the neck.

• Concussion: A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head is jolted violently in a collision. Symptoms of a concussion can include headache, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.

• Back injuries: Rear-end accidents can also cause injuries to the back, including herniated discs and spinal cord injuries.

• Broken bones: Depending on the accident's severity, it's possible to sustain broken bones in a rear-end collision.

If you've been rear-ended and have any of these symptoms or injuries, seeking medical attention is important.

Rear Ended: What Not to Do

If you've been rear-ended, knowing what not to do to protect your legal rights and ensure you get the compensation you're entitled to is important. Here are a few things to avoid:

• Admitting fault: Even if you think you might be partially to blame for the accident, it's important not to admit fault or apologize. This can be used against you if you need to file a claim.

• Failing to seek medical attention: Even if you don't feel any pain right after the accident, it's important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical treatment can worsen your injuries.

• Not reporting the accident: In some cases, the at-fault driver may try to convince you not to report the accident or to settle things without involving insurance companies. This is a mistake, as failing to report the accident can hurt your chances of recovering damages later.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do immediately after being rear-ended?

• First, you should check yourself and your passengers for injuries, then check on the other vehicle's driver. Call the police and exchange information with the other driver.

1. Do I need to see a doctor after being rear-ended?

• Even if you don't feel any pain, it's important to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure you haven't sustained any injuries that might not be immediately apparent.

1. Who is at fault in a rear-end collision?

• In general, the driver who crashes into the back of another vehicle is considered at fault.

1. How long do I have to file a claim after being rear-ended?

• The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies by state, so speaking with an attorney is essential to understand your case's timeline.

1. Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

• Yes, in some cases, you may still be able to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident.

1. Should I hire an attorney after being rear-ended?

• It's a good idea to speak with an attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options, especially if you've sustained injuries or significant damage to your vehicle.

Conclusion

Being rear-ended can be a scary and stressful experience, but it's important to know how to protect yourself and your legal rights. If you've been rear-ended, seek medical attention immediately, report the accident, and speak with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the claims process. With the proper support and guidance, you can recover from your injuries and get the compensation you deserve

If you have been involved in an accident, contact us to schedule a free consultation.