Tailgating leads to numerous rear-end accidents in Atlanta. Tailgating accidents often cause injuries that are not apparent right away. It’s crucial to know the full compensation you deserve. Thankfully, an Atlanta tailgating accident lawyer will help.
In the busy traffic of Atlanta, tailgating can be especially dangerous when it involves large trucks. The limited stopping distance and increased impact force make these accidents more severe. If you’ve been the victim of a truck accident caused by tailgating, it’s important to seek guidance from knowledgeable attorneys who are familiar with Georgia’s road safety laws. At John Foy & Associates, our truck accident lawyers in Atlanta have the expertise to handle these specific types of cases. Tailgating is a clear sign of negligence on Atlanta roads. Many drivers get behind the wheel while distracted, causing crashes. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll help you establish fault and fight for the recovery you deserve.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. Call us at (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
Why Tailgating Accidents Happen in Atlanta
Tailgating means someone is driving too closely behind the vehicle in front of them. The driver doesn’t leave a safe distance between both cars. If the front vehicle stops suddenly, the tailgating driver won’t have enough time to prevent an accident.
According to Georgia Code §40-6-49, drivers should not follow other vehicles closer than is “reasonable and prudent.” Drivers should also consider current speeds and traffic conditions. Tailgating means not following these laws.
Tailgating often leads to a rear-end collision, which is another name for a tailgating accident. Tailgating accidents happen for many reasons, including:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Failing to stop for a red light or stop sign
- Following too closely
- Merging too quickly
Tailgating accidents happen at any speed. Even at low speeds, tailgating accidents cause significant injuries.
Tailgating crashes happen when a driver is careless. The driver might be impatient with the car in front of them. Or, the driver might be impaired and unaware they are driving too closely.
No matter what the cause, negligence often leads to a tailgating collision. The driver whose negligence led to the crash is responsible for the damages. If you were the victim of your accident, you can seek compensation for your injuries.
It’s not just about the immediate aftermath but also about understanding the long-term effects of such an accident. Our personal injury attorneys in Atlanta are dedicated to ensuring that victims of tailgating truck accidents receive comprehensive legal support, from the investigation stage to securing fair compensation.
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Tailgating Accidents vs. Other Auto Crashes
Tailgating accidents have a few differences compared to other collisions:
- Liability is often easier to determine with a tailgating accident. The rear driver is usually at fault.
- Tailgating accidents often happen at lower speeds. However, they can still result in severe injuries and damage.
- Whiplash is the most common injury in a tailgating accident. Most people underestimate the severity of whiplash pain and costs.
- Tailgating crashes are almost always rear-ending accidents. They typically involve two cars, but sometimes multiple vehicles.
Rear-end collisions are more likely to be straightforward from a legal perspective. However, it’s still best to work with a lawyer when seeking compensation. It’s often challenging to prove your injuries and other damages in a tailgating crash.
An experienced lawyer will gather the proper evidence to build a claim. They’ll help you demonstrate your damages and who was at fault for the crash. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll help you with each step of your injury claim.
To discuss the details during a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online. There is no charge unless we win your case.
Negligence and Liability in Tailgating Accidents
Negligence is a lack of reasonable care towards others (Georgia Code §51-1-2). You prove someone’s negligence by showing that they failed to uphold their duty of care. When someone is negligent in an accident, they are liable for the damages.
Tailgating is a violation of the Georgia code. Also, specific road or weather conditions might require a driver to leave more room behind other vehicles. When you pursue compensation, you’ll need to show how the other driver is liable.
It’s best to work with a lawyer who can help you prove:
- The other driver’s negligence,
- How the driver’s negligence led to your accident, and
- The damages you’ve suffered because of the crash.
You’ll typically start by filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company. If you can get a fair settlement, you won’t have to sue for damages. However, you must fight for a reasonable offer.
If you accept a settlement offer too soon, you’ll leave money on the table. If you did not cause your accident, you should not have to pay for any costs. Your settlement should cover all of your current and future accident losses.
What to Do if the Insurance Company Offers You Money
Insurance companies are always looking to settle quickly. They want you to accept a low offer and close your case. This protects them from paying you anything else.
If the insurance company offers you money upfront, be skeptical. It’s likely a lowball offer that won’t cover all of your damages. Before you accept anything from the insurer, call an Atlanta tailgating accident lawyer.
It’s impossible to know what a fair settlement offer looks like right away. You will need time to determine your full damages, such as:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
It’s also best to wait until you’ve received all the necessary treatment for your injuries. Plus, injuries like whiplash take time to manifest and heal fully. Talk to a lawyer who will account for all possible losses from your accident.
Tailgating accidents often seem minor at first. But they can quickly become complicated and expensive. Don’t underestimate your costs.
Insurance companies have their own teams of lawyers and experts. It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to level the playing field. Work with an attorney who has experience with tailgating accidents in the Atlanta area.
Talk to an Atlanta Tailgating Accident Lawyer for Free Today
Don’t go it alone after a tailgating accident in Atlanta. John Foy & Associates is here to help you. We’re an experienced and well-respected Atlanta personal injury law firm.
With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win. Our number one goal is always to get you the fullest compensation possible. Plus, we will not charge you a fee unless we win your case.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation. We’ll discuss your accident and how you can take action today.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started for FREE.
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