How do rear-end accidents happen in Georgia?
Rear-end accidents happen every day in Georgia and can have a long-term impact on victims and their families. The following are some of the top causes of rear-end collisions:
- Distracted drivers - While cellphone use behind the wheel has become a major factor in all types of accidents, there are many other forms of driver distraction. Eating behind the wheel, operating the controls of a stereo, talking to a passenger, or gazing at something along the side of the road, to name a few, can all cause rear-end collisions.
- Reckless or aggressive drivers - Drivers who speed or wait until the last second to come to a stop might cause a rear-end crash. Drivers also sometimes drive too fast for the weather conditions and fail to give themselves enough time to stop.
- Drunk drivers - People who get behind the wheel after having too much to drink have delayed reaction time. They might slam into the back of a car stopped at a light or a vehicle that has slowed on a highway because of traffic congestion.
Many rear-end accidents are caused by aggressive drivers following another car too closely (tailgating). They are also often caused by distracted driving, speeding, or even falling asleep at the wheel.
The cause of your accident may seem clear-cut. Maybe you were rear-ended at an intersection or hit from behind while lawfully stopped at a red light, stop sign, or crosswalk.
Maybe you were slowing down in a construction zone or on Interstate 20 during rush hour and you were rear-ended by a semi-truck. Or you could have been rear-ended by a drunk driver.
While you might think you can handle the insurance claim on your own, it's not unusual for adjusters or attorneys for the at-fault individual to try to get you to give up your rights or to agree to an unreasonably low settlement. Get a Georgia rear-end accident lawyer who will stand up to the insurance companies.
Who is at fault for a rear-end accident?
Determining fault in a rear-end accident is usually straightforward: the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is typically considered at fault and responsible for damages. This is because no driver can control the vehicle behind them.
However, there are cases where the person in front could be found partially at fault. Maybe they suddenly changed lanes without signaling or brake-checked the trailing vehicle. While it's not common, it is possible.
That’s why it’s important to seek legal advice if you've been hit from behind and injured. Consulting with a rear-end accident lawyer helps you understand the nuances of the situation and assess fault accurately.
What are common types of rear-end accident injuries?
Rear-end accidents can leave people seriously injured. For instance, whiplash often occurs due to the sudden jolt of impact from the crash, causing the head to jerk back and forth rapidly.
Rear-end crashes can lead to a range of symptoms, often including back and neck pain. The forces involved in a rear-end collision can strain the muscles, ligaments, and nerves in these areas, causing discomfort and long-term pain.
Filing a rear-end accident lawsuit
When it comes to seeking compensation for your rear-end accident, you have two main options. You can file an insurance claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Or you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
How long does it take to settle a rear-end accident claim? It depends. Every accident has its unique factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of damages, and the willingness of the involved parties to negotiate.
Some settlements might be reached relatively quickly, while others can take more time to make sure all aspects of the case are thoroughly evaluated.
Working with an experienced rear-end accident lawyer can help speed up the process and maximize how much money you receive in a settlement offer.
We're ready to help – contact us today
At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we recognize that it can be difficult to know what to do after a rear-end car accident. Let us help. Find out how much your rear-end accident case is worth. Contact us today. Our experienced staff can help you cut through the confusion. Call 1-800-898-HAYS for a free consultation, and rest assured you pay nothing until we win your case. Now is the time to act.
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