Rear-End Collision Lawyers
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents that occur in the DFW area. These accidents frequently occur at intersections, in heavy traffic, at stoplights, and in other locations where drivers stop frequently, and they often result in significant injuries in addition to property damage. In most cases, these accidents are preventable and occur because the driver in the back was not paying close attention and/or was following the car in front too closely.
At Ted Machi & Associates, we understand how seriously these accidents can affect your life. If you have been the victim of a rear-end collision, we have the knowledge and experience to help you get the compensation you deserve from the party responsible for the accident.
Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions can cause a variety of injuries, depending on the circumstances of the crash. One of the most common types of injury that may be sustained in a rear-end crash is whiplash, which occurs when a driver or passenger’s neck moves back and forth forcefully during the accident. Other injuries that may result from a rear-end collision include broken bones, lacerations, soft tissue injuries, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and burns. In the worst cases, drivers or passengers can be killed in a rear-end collision.
Who Pays for Injuries?
Injuries sustained in a rear-end collision can result in a significant amount of expenses. Some of the expenses that may result from these injuries include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Lost capacity to earn
- Funeral costs
Other damages that may result from a rear-end collision include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and ongoing physical disabilities. The driver who caused the crash is responsible for providing compensation for any kind of damage resulting from the rear-end collision. In many cases, the amount that their insurance company offers will not be enough to cover the full extent of these damages. That’s when you should turn to Ted Machi & Associates; we’ll make sure that you get fully compensated for your losses and suffering.
By law, all drivers in the state of Texas are required to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance. The purpose of this insurance is to pay any expenses related to crashes the driver may cause, such as rear-end collisions. Unlike some other states, Texas does not require drivers to carry no-fault car insurance. No-fault insurance – also known as Personal Injury Protection – provides you and your passengers compensation for serious injuries that you may sustain after a no-fault accident. Following a rear-end collision, it is important to note that the amount you pay for your auto insurance may increase. Unfortunately, your rate can go up even if you are not responsible for the accident.
Texas Auto Insurance Requirements
Determining Fault in Rear-End Collisions
In the majority of rear-end collisions, the fault will lie with the driver in the back. All drivers are responsible for keeping a safe distance between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them, and they are required to watch vehicles in front of them so they can stop if necessary. Drivers who fail to uphold these responsibilities may be found at fault when they hit someone. However, the driver in front may be responsible for the crash if he or she:
- Reverses his or her vehicle unexpectedly
- Turns or makes a U-turn in front of the other vehicle
- Cuts the other driver off
- Stops in the middle of the road
- Has brake lights that don’t function properly
- Is driving recklessly
Determining fault in these circumstances can be difficult and will depend on the evidence collected, the testimony of witnesses, and the contents of the police report. In rear-end collisions that involve more than two vehicles, multiple drivers are often held responsible.
How to Avoid a Rear-End Collision
It is always better to avoid accidents if possible. You can reduce the risk of a rear-end collision by
- following all applicable traffic laws;
- driving defensively;
- watching the drivers in front of you so you can stop quickly if you need to;
- maintaining a safe following distance;
- watching out for drivers who are operating their vehicles recklessly or unpredictably;
- not driving with distractions;
- not driving under the influence of alcohol;
- maintaining an even greater following distance during inclement weather; and
- making sure your brake lights are functioning properly.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision
After a rear-end collision, the first thing you should do is check for injuries. If any passengers or drivers involved are injured, it is important to call for medical help immediately. Next, you should call the police to the scene so that you can file a report. After that, you should exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved in the accident, and you should collect contact information from any witnesses on the scene. If possible, take photographs of the crash scene so you can document exactly how the crash occurred and the amount of damage caused to each vehicle. If you seek medical attention or accumulate any other expenses because of the accident, keep careful written records.
Hiring a Rear-End Collision Attorney
If you have been involved in a rear-end crash that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation from the party responsible. However, to recover the maximum amount of compensation, you need assistance from a qualified and experienced attorney.
Following a crash, the at-fault party’s insurance company will try to settle as quickly and for as little money as possible. When you are struggling with medical bills and other expenses, it can be tempting to accept the first offer you receive. However, in many cases, this offer won’t be as high as it should be. If you accept an offer too quickly, you may end up paying for many of the costs associated with the accident out-of-pocket.
At Ted Machi & Associates, we know how to accurately calculate a fair settlement after a rear-end collision. With our help, you will have all of the resources you need to fight for the fair compensation you deserve from both the insurance company and the responsible party. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our experienced attorneys.