According to a 2015 report by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), nearly half of all two-vehicle crashes were rear-end collisions. The report also revealed that between 2011 and 2012, over one million individuals in the United States suffered injuries from such collisions.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a rear-end collision, seeking damages alone may not be the best course of action. The skilled rear-end collision attorneys at John Foy & Associates in Atlanta offer complimentary consultations. With over two decades of experience, we are one of Atlanta’s leading personal injury law firms, dedicated to safeguarding the rights of those harmed by another’s negligence.
Rear-end collisions rank among the most prevalent types of road accidents and can result in severe injuries. By reaching out to our Atlanta car accident attorneys, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected.
Atlanta Rear-End Collision FAQs
Knowing what to do after being rear-ended can be challenging. You know you’re in pain, but what do you do next? Get answers to frequently asked questions from a rear-end accident lawyer.
I Got Rear-Ended – do I Need a Lawyer?
Even a minor rear-end accident can benefit from the guidance of a lawyer. They ensure your rights are upheld and that you receive full compensation for all damages incurred. If you’ve suffered injuries or losses through no fault of your own, it’s important to fight for what you’re entitled to, and a lawyer can help you understand your entitlements.
In any personal injury case, compensation typically covers:
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost wages and income due to the accident
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Decreased quality of life
In cases involving drunk or criminally negligent drivers, punitive damages may also be pursued to penalize their behavior.
Engaging an Atlanta rear-end collision lawyer ensures you meet all deadlines for filing a lawsuit, as Georgia law typically allows a two-year statute of limitations. Acting promptly is crucial to preserving your right to compensation, accessing necessary medical care, and gathering evidence while it’s still fresh. When facing the challenges of a rear-end collision, the expertise of a dedicated personal injury lawyer, like those at John Foy and Associates in Atlanta, is essential for securing the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions?
Here are six primary reasons for rear-end collisions:
- Excessive speed: When a driver is going too fast to stop safely.
- Tailgating: Following the preceding vehicle too closely to stop in time.
- Unsafe lane changes: When a vehicle switches lanes recklessly, impeding the following vehicle’s ability to avoid a collision.
- Driving under the influence: Any intoxicated driver, regardless of who’s impaired, can cause an accident.
- Distracted driving: Engaging in activities like phone use, texting, eating, or being mentally preoccupied poses significant risks on the road.
- Weather conditions: Factors such as sun glare, fog, rain, or icy roads can contribute to rear-end collisions.
What Are the Major Injuries People Suffer in Rear-End Collisions?
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety states that neck injuries are the most frequently reported consequence of car accidents, particularly in rear-end collisions where about one in five insurance claims is related to whiplash or neck strain.
In addition to neck injuries, other common car accident injuries include spinal cord damage, knee and leg injuries, facial cuts, and brain trauma from airbag deployment. It’s crucial not to underestimate any injury sustained in a collision. Seeking prompt medical attention and openly discussing your pain with a healthcare provider is essential.
With over 20 years of experience in personal injury law in Atlanta, John Foy & Associates has established strong connections with medical professionals specializing in treating these injuries. Contact us for assistance in obtaining the appropriate medical treatment.
What Should You Do If You Are Injured in a Rear-End Collision?
n the event of a rear-end collision causing injury to you or a loved one, it’s crucial to collect as much information about the incident as possible. Obtain contact details from witnesses and ensure you exchange license, car registration, and insurance information with the other involved driver. Promptly contact the police to file a report.
If there are serious injuries, don’t hesitate to call for medical assistance. If you are unable to perform these tasks due to injuries, our experienced investigators will handle the collection of crash details for you. They will meticulously review police and insurance reports to reconstruct the collision.
Never agree to keep the incident private if the other driver suggests it. “Let’s keep this between ourselves” is a common phrase, but it often leads to complications later on. As our firm founder, John Foy, emphasizes, “I don’t know how many times we’ve heard that the other driver was willing to pay for everything only to have the guy disappear.
Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Collision in Georgia?
Rear-end collisions often result in significant injury and property damage, and determining fault is usually straightforward. Typically, the trailing driver is at fault, although extenuating circumstances may occasionally implicate the lead driver or a third party.
Following an accident, it’s crucial to limit interaction with the other driver to exchanging necessary information. According to our founder, John Foy, arguing seldom yields positive outcomes. Instead, keep discussions brief and courteous, focusing on exchanging driver and vehicle details.
Our team meticulously reviews police and insurance reports to determine liability. Even if you bear partial responsibility for the accident in Georgia, you may still pursue a claim as long as your liability doesn’t exceed 50%.
How a Rear-End Accident Lawyer Can Help You Get Compensation
Many individuals hesitate to enlist the help of a lawyer due to concerns about affordability. However, when it comes to hiring a personal injury attorney, cost should never deter you. These attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only receive payment if you win your case.
Your attorney’s fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive from the responsible party, alleviating any financial burden on your end. Moreover, the more compensation you secure, the higher your attorney’s earnings, ensuring they’re motivated to maximize your settlement.
Opting for a rear-end accident lawyer in Atlanta offers numerous advantages over self-representation:
- Negotiating with the opposing driver and their insurer on your behalf
- Collecting evidence such as photos, videos, witness testimonies, medical records, and police reports to bolster your case
- Utilizing expert testimony to establish the other party’s liability, countering claims that you’re at fault
A significant challenge in self-representation lies in dealing with insurance companies. These entities often aim for swift settlements to minimize their liability, even before the full extent of your injuries is known. Once you accept a settlement, you forfeit the opportunity to pursue further compensation, regardless of any delayed symptoms like concussions or spinal injuries.
Insurance companies deploy teams of skilled attorneys to protect their interests, and your own agent may not have the authority to prioritize your needs over the company’s bottom line. It’s crucial not to engage in negotiations or provide recorded statements without first consulting a personal injury attorney.
Contact Our Experienced Rear-End Collision Attorneys Today
Pound Law, your trusted Atlanta personal injury advocate, boasts a seasoned team with two decades of experience. With a track record of securing millions for our clients, we specialize in handling rear-end collision injury claims. Our commitment remains steadfast: aiding those harmed by negligence. Our exclusive focus is on individuals like you.
Contact our adept Atlanta rear-end collision lawyers via phone or our online form to initiate your case. Our lines are open 24/7, ensuring you prompt assistance. Benefit from a complimentary and confidential consultation—rest assured, we operate on a contingency basis, ensuring you only pay when compensation is recovered.