Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of vehicle accidents on the road. Millions of people each year in the United States get involved in a rear-end collision. While this type of crash has a lower fatality rate than others, it is still dangerous and can cause numerous damages and injuries.
If you were in a rear-end collision accident in Smyrna, you are entitled to financial compensation from the at-fault party. Proving negligence and negotiating with insurance companies can be a difficult task to face alone. Getting a lawyer to help you during this challenging time can benefit you greatly and win you a fair settlement for your damages.
Our team of Smyrna rear-end collision lawyers will assist you at every stage of your pursuit of justice. It may seem hopeless to have to fight a lengthy legal battle, but we work tirelessly for our clients to get them the best outcome possible for their case. Call us today at (404) 341-6555 and learn more about all the options available for you.
Why Rear-End Collisions Happen
Rear-end collisions primarily for the same reasons all car accidents happen. They happen due to the negligence of others. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), 76% of all fatalities that occur in all crashes happen due to unsafe driving. Unsafe driving can be any or a mix of the following:
- Driving impaired, intoxicated, or tired
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or grooming
Accidents can also occur due to unmaintained roads or construction. In those instances, the at-fault party would be the government or the construction company as they failed in making sure the conditions to drive were safe.
Why Rear-End Collisions Are Dangerous
The dangers of rear-end collisions include many personal injuries. While a rear-end collision may not be as severe as a head-on collision or an accident involving a commercial vehicle, they can still be very damaging. Some of these injuries are very serious and can lead to life-long complications. These injuries can be:
- Whiplash or other neck and spine injury
- Head trauma, concussion, or brain injury
- Broken bones
- Cuts, scrapes, and burns
- Paralysis, loss of limb, and other loss of bodily function
There are also lasting psychological injuries. Mental anguish in the form of PTSD, anxiety, and depression can result from being in a rear-end collision. Psychological injuries should not be discounted as they can be just as damaging as physical injuries. If you are suffering from these conditions, you should seek compensation for them as well.
Another thing to remember is your passengers. Kids are often in the back seat and will get the full brunt of the impact in a rear-end collision. This potential risk to kids only further proves how dangerous and deadly rear-end collisions can be.
Damages You Can Sue For
There are many damages you can pursue after your rear-end collision. A good lawyer will negotiate not only for injuries, pain and suffering, and mental anguish. They can seek compensation for:
- Medical bills, including hospital visits, prescriptions, and therapy
- Tuition and school fees
- Lost wages or reduced earning capability
- Living expenses, such as your rent, mortgage, groceries, or utilities
- Vehicle repair and repairing property damage
- Loss of consortium or loss of enjoyment of life
It is important to remember that these damages are not your fault. These expenses should get paid by the person or persons responsible for the condition you are in now. You did not ask for this fight, but a good lawyer can help you win it and get a settlement that can undo all the damage done to you, your property, and your loved ones.
Gather Evidence After an Accident
After making sure that you and those around you are safe and okay, gather evidence of the accident. Call the police so they can make a record of the accident taking place. Take pictures of the vehicles involved and the site of the accident. Always exchange information with the other party. Talk to any witnesses and get their statements of what happened. If there are any cameras in the area, be sure to see if they caught the accident on tape. Any bills, expenses, invoices, or other records should get kept safely. All evidence, no matter how small, should be retained just in case.
Statute of Limitations
Official Georgia Code Annotated (O.G.C.A.) §9-3-33 states that you have two years to file a personal injury claim. Lots of evidence can get lost over two years. Records can get misplaced, witness memory can fade, and injuries will completely heal. The longer you delay, the weaker your case will become.
It is best to file a claim soon after your accident with all of the evidence you have collected. Speaking with a lawyer will help you get all of your evidence organized and determine liability for the accident.
Talk to a Smyrna Rear-End Collisions Lawyer Today
Insurance companies will try and take advantage of the situation you are in and get you to settle for less than you deserve. Do not let them undervalue the damages done to you. Getting strong legal representation to negotiate on your behalf can get you the compensation you deserve to get yourself on track to recovery.
For decades our team has fought for our clients. We want to see you get the best settlement during this difficult time. Working with us is risk-free, and we do not ask for any payment unless we win you compensation. For a free consultation, call us today at (404) 341-6555.
