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Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents yet their impact is often severely understated. From property damage to hidden injuries, the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming. By knowing the steps to take after such an accident, you will be able to have a better shot at securing fair compensation. Whether you are dealing with insurance companies or seeking legal assistance, learn everything you need to know to navigate this type of accident.
Assessing the Damage: The Immediate Aftermath
Safety comes first immediately after a rear-end collision. After all, rear-end crashes account for 17.9% of accident deaths, so it’s important to make sure everyone is all right. Ensure that you and others involved are out of harm’s way and that emergency services aren’t needed. Once it is safe to do so, begin to document the scene of the accident thoroughly. This could involve taking pictures of damage to the vehicles, your injuries, the environment around the accident site, and more. Specifically, you will want to look to take pictures of any skid marks, traffic signs, or debris that might be relevant to how the crash occurred.
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s always best to contact the police as they can draft up a police report which will be vital evidence when filing an insurance claim. Additionally, you should notify your insurance company as soon as possible as most policies require prompt reporting, and delaying could jeopardize your claim.
Seeking Medical Attention: Why It Can’t Wait
Perhaps the most dangerous part of rear-end collisions is their propensity to cause hidden injuries and delayed symptoms. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue damage are all common in rear-end collisions but they may not be immediately apparent. The adrenaline from the heat of the moment can mask the pain until later, which leads many victims to often underestimate their injuries. Even if you feel perfectly fine you should get in touch with a medical professional after your accident.
A medical evaluation will not only ensure your well-being but it will also guarantee there are medical records that may be critical to your claim. These records will establish a direct link between the accident and your injuries, thus making it harder for insurance companies to dispute your case.
Filing a Car Insurance Claim: Steps to Success
Depending on the state you live in, there may be different insurance rules at play following a rear-end collision. For example, Florida maintains a no-fault insurance law which means that your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage will pay for your medical bills up to a certain limit regardless of fault. However, if your injuries go beyond the maximum limit of this coverage or involve significant property damage, you may need to file a liability claim against the other driver’s insurance.
As you begin to interact with insurance adjusters, it’s essential that you tread as carefully as possible. Provide as much accurate information as you can gather and remember, but avoid making speculations about fault or downplaying your injuries. Adjustors may use your statements in an effort to minimize or deny your claim which is why it’s important to only say what you know.
When to Call a Lawyer: Spotting the Red Flags
Not all rear-end accidents will require legal intervention, but certain scenarios will demand expert help undoubtedly. If you’ve suffered severe injuries and the other driver disputes their liability in the accident or the insurance company offers a shockingly low settlement, it’s likely time to contact an attorney for help. Also, if the other driver happens to sue you and tries to claim that you stopped too quickly or for some other reason, a lawyer can help you defend yourself and prove your case in court.
An accredited car accident lawyer can investigate the details of the crash themselves, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf with their years of experience. They can also calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, which will help to ensure that you don’t settle for less than you deserve. Finding a lawyer can be challenging, but aim to locate one with experience specifically in rear-end collisions.
Navigating the Legal Process: What to Expect
If a lawyer agrees to take on your case, the first step is often sending a demand letter to the insurance company that outlines your injuries, the damages, and the requested compensation. Most claims will actually be resolved at this point through negotiation, which means the different parties will discuss and come to a resolution themselves. If negotiations fail, though, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit against the other party.
Going to court will be a time-consuming and sometimes expensive process, but it often compels the insurers to offer fair compensation. It may also dissuade the other driver from pursuing their defense. A skilled attorney will be able to guide you through the process while advocating for your rights every step of the way. For those worried about cost, a lot of lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, which means they only receive payment if your case settles successfully. However, not all lawyers operate on this fee structure, so consult with your lawyer about their own chosen structure as soon as possible.
Take charge after your rear-end car accident
The aftermath of a rear-end collision can be daunting and leave you wondering what to do next, but taking the right steps can make all the difference in the world. By documenting the scene, seeking medical attention, and handling your insurance claim with caution, you will already be well on the way to building a strong case for compensation. If you are ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice to protect your rights with the help of a lawyer. Remember that acting quickly and decisively will be the key to securing the justice and support you deserve after an accident.
