It can happen to anyone not paying attention to the road. A driver looks down for an instant while driving and in the next instant he or she could be involved in a rear-end collision. Serious injuries can occur when one vehicle hits another from behind, even if the other vehicle was traveling at a relatively slow speed. In addition to physical and emotional injuries, drivers and passengers involved in rear-end collisions may also incur significant medical expenses and lost wages. When a rear-end accident is due to another driver’s negligence, then injured parties can hold that driver responsible for any damages done to themselves or their property.
At Golden State Lawyers, APC, our San Jose rear-end accident attorneys have helped victims of rear-end collisions achieve amazing recoveries on their cases. We represent clients throughout California, with a special focus on cases in the Bay Area near our San Jose personal injury law firm. Founder and principal attorney, Robert Bohn, Jr. have dedicated his career to helping those who have been wrongfully injured. With a proven record of success, Golden State Lawyers, APC has garnered a reputation for building strong cases in the state of California.
What Should I Do After a Rear-End Collision?
It is crucial to understand what to do after an accident so you can preserve important evidence for your case and get the medical treatment that you need. For example, we urge our clients to get a medical evaluation, even if they initially think they are unharmed. An injury from a rear-end or head-on collision may go unnoticed at first, which could potentially cause long-term health issues in the future if not immediately treated. If you are physically able, you should try to get pictures and/or video of the accident scene as well as all contact information of any witnesses. It is important to note that a witness who did not actually see the accident occur is still a potentially important one. Even if he or she only witnessed the aftermath, that witness’ testimony could be valuable to your claim.
After gathering all the immediate evidence that you can and ensuring that your health is not in jeopardy, you must report the accident to your insurance. When reporting the incident to an adjuster, it is vitally important that you stick to the facts and nothing else. Do not admit fault or say anything that could be construed as an admission of fault. For example, apologizing after an accident may seem like a nice thing to do — even when it is not your fault. However, in the event that you pursue legal action, this act of kindness and concern could in fact severely damage the legitimacy of your claim. Additionally, the other party’s insurance company may tell you that if the damage done to your vehicle is not substantial, then your injury claim is of little value. This is not always true and is often used as a scare tactic. Further, you should never sign a settlement agreement offered by an insurance company without first consulting qualified San Jose rear-end accident attorneys.
What Are Common Rear-End Accident Injuries?
In most cases, the driver of the front car in a rear-end collision case is able to establish that the driver of the car behind him or her is the one at fault. Beyond the physical and financial damages, victims of rear-end collisions may suffer significant emotional harm, such as recurrent nightmares, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), heightened anxiety and fear of driving. Since the driver and passengers in the first car may have had no warning and had little or no time to brace themselves before being struck, they often sustain injuries such as:
- Whiplash
- Brain and spinal cord injuries
- Injury to the cervical, thoracic or lumbar spine
- Facial and head injuries
- Shock or trauma
- Shoulder and elbow injuries
- Broken ribs or torso contusions
Our San Jose rear-end accident attorneys are here to help wrongfully injured victims recover full compensation for damages caused by negligent drivers. We will try to help you resolve your claim before litigation is necessary, so that you receive full compensation as quickly as possible. However, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial if either the irresponsible driver or an insurance company refuses to compensate you fairly.
Rear-End Accident Injury? Call Today for Your Free Initial Consultation
Getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle is an everyday occurrence for many Americans. We expect other drivers to drive safely and adhere to the rules of the road. This means no speeding or distracted driving (such as texting or using a phone while driving), which are often causes of rear-end accidents. If you have been injured in a rear-end collision due to another driver’s negligence, then you have the right to pursue compensation for all damages incurred.
Golden State Lawyers, APC offers free initial consultations for all clients. We also operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay us if you are awarded a financial recovery for your injuries. Our Bay Area attorneys will gladly visit your home or a hospital room to consult with you if you are unable to travel. Contact us online or call 408-279-4222 today to schedule your free initial consultation.