Rear-end collisions are one of the most common crashes on Dublin roads. While they seem minor, these accidents can cause severe injuries and losses. The cause is usually an inattentive driver. Property damage is also extensive, depending on the speed of the rear vehicle.
The negligent driver must pay for your losses, so you must file an insurance claim. As a victim of a rear-end accident, you have options, and it is vital that you speak to a Dublin rear-end collision lawyer from John Foy & Associates to discuss those options.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Driver inattention is the leading cause of these accidents. Weather conditions are a contributing factor, but drivers cannot blame Mother Nature for their actions. When it begins to rain, drivers must adjust their speed and driving habits to meet weather conditions.
Distracted driving can cover a range of actions or inactions, such as:
- Eating behind the wheel
- Speeding
- Texting
- Personal grooming
- Failure to brake
When a driver cannot brake when approaching a stopped car, it causes rear-end collisions. Failure to yield, intoxication, trying to beat a red light, and speeding are other causes of rear-end collisions.
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The Severity of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions can lead to severe injuries. When a person is in a fender bender, they do not think they will be in pain for months or have a permanent disability, but that is often the case. You can suffer various injuries, but the ones at the top of the list are:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury that happens when sudden head jerks occur. You will see this in rear-end collisions when your head whips back and forth from the impact, causing headaches, neck pain, and stiffness.
- Spinal cord injuries: You can have paralysis from the impact area down when you suffer spinal cord trauma.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Victims can experience traumatic brain injuries in a rear-end collision ranging from concussions to permanent cognitive disorders. When your head hits the steering wheel or shakes violently, you can suffer a TBI.
Rear-end accident victims can also suffer injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Head and neck trauma
- Wrist and hand injuries
- Facial wounds
- Disfigurement
- Bruising and lacerations
Determining Which Driver Is at Fault in a Collision
The driver who hit you is usually considered at fault for your losses. While it seems simple to you, the insurance company disagrees. The insurance adjuster will look for ways to blame you for the accident.
For example, they may claim that your brakes were not working or that you purposely changed lanes in front of the other vehicle. To determine fault and ensure evidence supports your claim, it is vital to speak to a rear-end collision lawyer in Dublin, GA.
Elements to Prove Fault
When our firm investigates your accident, we will work to uncover evidence proving fault and showing the other party was negligent. We will show that the rear driver owed you a duty of care that all motorists owe each other. We will then prove their negligent action led to the accident. Inaction can also lead to an accident, and we will provide evidence of their failure to act.
Lastly, we must show the accident resulted in your injuries and losses.
Evidence to Show Liability
To prove the elements of fault, we will collect evidence. The most common forms of evidence John Foy & Associates will obtain include:
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos and videos
- Police reports
- Cell phone records
- Reports on weather and road conditions
- Driver statements
- Medical records
- EMT records
The more evidence we can preserve, the better your chances of a successful recovery. Getting evidence within a week of the accident is best because it can quickly disappear or be challenging to find. If necessary, we can file legal motions to compel participants in the accident to preserve evidence for our use.
Why You Should Hire a Dublin Rear-End Collision Attorney
Many residents do not hire Dublin rear-end collision attorneys because they believe liability is apparent. Unfortunately, the insurance company will disagree and find evidence to prove the victim was at fault. Hiring an attorney can mitigate these circumstances.
John Foy & Associates can provide the services that help you get through the process like:
- Investigate the circumstances of your rear-end collision
- Determine the cause of your accident upon reviewing the evidence
- Gather evidence
- Establish liability
- Seek compensation from liable parties
- Negotiate with at-fault parties and their insurance companies
- Meet all statutes and deadlines for your claim
A rear-end collision attorney in Dublin, GA, provides many services to accident victims. It is essential that you hire John Foy & Associates to review your case and work for you.
The Compensation Available
After an accident, many victims wonder what compensation is available to them. Even with health and car insurance, covering all of your losses after a rear-end collision is challenging. When you have our firm in your corner, we will compile all relevant documentation to ensure we get you the compensation you deserve.
We will look at your losses and negotiate with the insurance company to recover payment for the following:
- Permanent disability
- Diminished quality of life
- Wages and lost income due to the accident
- Medical treatment now and in the future
- Loss of earning potential
- Property damage
Depending on your circumstances, other economic and non-economic damages are available. You can also recover punitive damages if the at-fault driver was drunk or acting in a criminal matter.
Take Action Now with the Strong Arm
You must take swift action after a rear-end collision because Georgia has strict statutes for car accident claims. Dublin residents have two years from the accident date to take legal action. However, the insurance company will contact you within 24 hours trying to settle.
Instead of speaking to the insurance company, contact John Foy & Associates and get the Strong Arm on your team by working with a Dublin rear-end collision lawyer today. We work diligently to get you back on your feet.
478-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form