If you were hurt in a rear-end accident in Lawrenceville, GA, you should speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. The driver who hit you could owe you money for your medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and more – but getting it could be difficult on your own.
At Butler Kahn, our knowledgeable injury lawyers are here to provide the legal support you need after a rear-end crash that was someone else’s fault. Contact us today for a free case review and find out what we can do for you.
What Is a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end collision happens when the front end of one vehicle crashes into the back end of another. Rear-end collisions can happen at any speed and in all types of traffic conditions. Many of these accidents result from distracted driving, following too closely, impaired driving, or a combination of factors.
How Do Rear-End Accidents Happen in Lawrenceville?
Common causes of rear-end accidents in Lawrenceville include:
- Driver negligence – Negligent drivers who tailgate other vehicles, refuse to yield the right of way, or fail to slow down or stop with the flow of traffic are often liable for rear-end accidents.
- Speeding – Drivers who travel too quickly for road conditions or fail to adjust their speed when approaching traffic increase the risk of rear-end crashes.
- Distracted driving – Texting and talking on cell phones while driving are among the most dangerous forms of distracted driving. These behaviors significantly reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.
- Mechanical defects – If a mechanical defect causes critical components like brakes or steering systems to fail, drivers can lose control of their vehicles and cause rear-end collisions.
- Poor road conditions – Road hazards such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles and hit cars ahead of them.
Is It Easier to Prove Fault in a Rear-End Accident?
Proving fault in a rear-end collision isn’t always simple. Many people assume that the following driver is always at fault in a rear-end accident since the law requires drivers to always leave a safe distance from other cars. But in some cases, the lead driver or some third party might be partially or totally at fault for the collision. For instance, another party could be at fault if:
- A leading driver suddenly reverses, hits the brakes, or cuts too closely in front of another vehicle
- Another road user darts in front of the leading driver, prompting them to slam on the brakes
- A manufacturer’s negligence contributes to a mechanical failure that causes the accident
- A government agency fails in its responsibility to keep local roads in a safe condition for the public
What Are the Most Common Injuries from a Rear-End Accident?
Common injuries resulting from Lawrenceville rear-end accidents include:
- Whiplash – Whiplash injuries are incredibly common consequences of rear-end accidents. Symptoms of whiplash include neck and shoulder pain, headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision.
- Back injuries – Rear-end accidents can contribute to herniated discs, muscle sprains, and other debilitating back injuries that cause intense pain and severely limit mobility.
- Brain injuries – Even in a low-speed rear-end collision, the force of impact can cause the head to jerk back and forth. This violent movement can cause concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
- Internal injuries – These types of injuries range from minor interior bruising to more severe injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
What Damages Can I Expect from a Rear-End Accident Claim?
If you suffer injuries in a rear-end accident, you could experience considerable financial losses. However, you can pursue compensation for those losses in a rear-end accident claim. Depending on the circumstances, you could claim damages for the following types of crash-related losses:
- Medical expenses – This includes all medical costs related to the accident, such as the costs of hospital stays, doctor visits, therapy sessions, prescription medications, and medical equipment.
- Lost wages – If you can’t work due to your injuries, you could pursue compensation for any income or benefits you lose.
- Pain and suffering – This includes physical pain and emotional suffering from the accident.
- Loss of consortium – This refers to a spouse losing their partner’s companionship, intimacy, or affection due to crash-related injuries.
Is There a Statute of Limitations in Georgia for Filing a Rear-End Accident Claim?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations law sets a two-year time limit on most personal injury lawsuits stemming from rear-end accidents. In most cases, this means you have just two years from the accident date to sue an at-fault party. However, the time limit could be longer or shorter in certain circumstances. To make sure you meet all deadlines, it’s best to speak with a skilled personal injury lawyer immediately after a rear-end accident.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Rear-End Accident?
If you get hurt in a rear-end accident in Lawrenceville, you should take the following steps to protect yourself and your legal rights:
- Seek medical attention whether or not you think you’re injured.
- Follow your doctor’s care plan and go to all follow-up medical appointments.
- Get the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance information.
- Take pictures of crash-related vehicle damage and the surrounding area at the scene.
- Gather contact information and statements from witnesses who saw what happened.
- Go online or contact your local police to request an accident report.
- Before speaking to a lawyer, watch what you say to the insurance company and other parties.
- Consult an experienced Lawrenceville rear-end accident attorney for legal advice.
Contact a Lawrenceville Rear-End Accident Lawyer
If you are reading this page because you or a loved one has been hurt in a rear-end accident, we hope you are receiving the medical care that you need and are making a recovery. We also hope the information on this page has been helpful. If you’d like to talk with us about your situation, call us or contact us online. There is no charge to talk with us about your case.
