Car accident from being rear ended

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents, accounting for a large percentage of crashes every year. Knowing what to do when you get rear-ended can make a significant difference in how smoothly the aftermath of the accident goes. Whether you’re dealing with vehicle damage, potential injuries, or the stress of insurance claims, taking the right steps immediately after the crash can protect your health, strengthen your legal position, and help you seek the maximum compensation available to you. Understanding the proper actions can also help avoid costly mistakes that could affect your ability to recover financially or medically.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be better equipped to handle the situation and protect your rights. Let’s explore what you need to do if you’re involved in a rear-end collision.

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Step 1: Ensure Your Safety

Your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident should always be your top priority. Here’s what to do if you get rear-ended to ensure everyone’s well-being:

  • Move to a safe location: If the collision occurred in an active traffic lane, and your vehicle is still operable, move it to a safer spot. Staying in a dangerous location could lead to additional accidents.
  • Turn on hazard lights: Once you’ve moved your vehicle to safety, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident.
  • Check for injuries: Assess yourself, your passengers, and then the other driver for any injuries. Even if no one appears hurt, some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately obvious. Be cautious and seek medical attention if necessary.

Step 2: Call the Authorities

After ensuring that everyone is safe, your next step should be to contact the police. Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s always best to have an official report on file. Police reports are key documents when it comes to determining liability in a rear-end collision. These reports often include valuable information, such as the officer’s assessment of who is at fault, which can support your claim if you need to file one.

Even if the accident seems minor, having this documentation can help you down the road if your injuries or vehicle damage turns out to be more severe than you initially thought.

Step 3: Document the Accident Scene

Accurate documentation is essential for any insurance claims or potential lawsuits following an accident. After getting rear-ended, it’s important to collect necessary evidence:

  • Take photos: Capture detailed photos of your vehicle, the other driver’s vehicle, the surrounding road conditions, skid marks, weather, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This visual documentation can be pivotal in proving what happened.
  • Exchange information: Get the name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance details, and vehicle registration from the other driver.
  • Witnesses: If there are any witnesses to the accident, be sure to gather their contact information. Their statements may be useful later when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company

After taking care of your immediate safety and documenting the accident, your next step is to inform your insurance company. Even if the damage seems minimal, notifying your insurer promptly ensures you’re protected in case any issues arise later.

  • Report the accident: Stick to the facts when reporting the accident. Provide the necessary details but avoid admitting any fault or giving opinions on what caused the collision.
  • Understanding coverage: It’s essential to know what types of insurance coverage apply, such as personal injury protection (PIP), liability coverage, or uninsured motorist coverage. Knowing your coverage helps you understand what compensation you may be entitled to.

Step 5: Consult a Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer is a smart move. A car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and options after a rear-end accident. They can also guide you through the complex insurance claims process and help ensure you receive the full compensation you may deserve.

  • Handling insurance companies: Insurance adjusters may try to offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your medical expenses or vehicle repairs. A lawyer will handle negotiations to ensure you’re not shortchanged.
  • Maximizing compensation: A lawyer can help you determine the true value of your claim, taking into account future medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
  • Proving liability: An attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case and prove the other driver’s fault.
  • Avoiding costly mistakes: A lawyer will ensure you don’t make common legal errors, like accepting a lowball offer or missing important deadlines, that could weaken your case.
  • Peace of mind: Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on recovering while they handle the paperwork, legal proceedings, and negotiations on your behalf.
  • Free consultation: Our attorneys at Phillip S. Georges, PLLC offer free case reviews to assess your case and provide guidance on the next steps. When you work with us, you won’t owe any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

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What Not To Do After Getting Rear-Ended

Knowing what not to do after getting rear-ended is just as important as knowing what steps to take. Avoid these common mistakes:

  • Don’t admit fault: Even a casual “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts and let the authorities determine liability.
  • Avoid signing anything without legal advice: Insurance companies may push you to sign documents or settle quickly, but you should avoid signing anything until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
  • Don’t delay seeking medical attention: Failing to get medical care promptly not only jeopardizes your health but can also weaken your personal injury claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of rear-end crashes?

Rear-end collisions are most commonly caused by:

  • Distracted driving: Such as texting or using a phone while driving, which takes the driver’s focus off the road.
  • Tailgating: Following too closely to the car in front of you, as it limits reaction time.
  • Sudden braking: Slamming on the brakes in reaction to changes in traffic flow can lead to rear-end crashes, particularly if the following driver isn’t paying attention or is driving too fast for conditions.

Who is at fault in a rear-end collision?

In most cases, the driver who rear-ended the other vehicle is considered at fault because drivers are expected to maintain a safe following distance. However, there are exceptions. For instance, if the lead vehicle made an unsafe maneuver, like cutting off the following car or stopping suddenly without cause, fault may be shared or even shifted to the lead driver. An experienced attorney can help investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine who is truly at fault. 

Can you sue someone for rear-ending you?

Yes, if you were injured or suffered damages as a result of being rear-ended, you can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Even if the damage seems minor at first, some injuries, like whiplash, may worsen over time, making it essential to explore your legal options early on.

Should I get a lawyer for a rear-end car accident?

Yes, hiring a lawyer can be extremely beneficial after a rear-end collision. A lawyer will help you navigate the often-complicated insurance claims process, ensuring that your rights are protected. They can handle negotiations with the insurance company, help gather evidence, and fight to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages. Without a lawyer, you risk accepting a settlement that may not fully cover all of your losses.

Let The Wolf Pack® Fight For You After a Rear-End Collision

If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Phillip S. Georges, PLLC, we understand what to do when you get rear-ended and are here to guide you every step of the way. From dealing with insurance companies to gathering evidence and fighting for fair compensation, our experienced car accident attorneys in Nashville, Milwaukee, and Norfolk are committed to protecting your rights. Let The Wolf Pack® handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you may deserve.