You must take legal action in a rear-end collision in Walterboro. Your vehicle was in the lead, and you were struck from behind. In most rear-end crashes, the trailing driver is the one at fault.
This rule has a few exceptions, and the insurance company will use every excuse possible to deny your claim. You need the Walterboro car accident lawyer from Shelly Leeke Law Firm to determine liability and seek compensation. Our Walterboro personal injury lawyers are ready to help you get back on your feet and get the compensation you deserve.
Causes of Rear-End Collisions
When all motorists follow road rules, everyone can arrive at their destinations safely. However, when a driver is distracted or driving recklessly, it can cause a rear-end collision. Common causes of rear-end crashes include:
- Drowsy driving
- Following too closely
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Dangerous road conditions
Rear-end collisions often happen during heavy traffic as drivers stop and go at varying degrees. Weather causes low visibility and can contribute to rear-end collisions, but drivers must adjust their driving to the condition. Some may not be paying attention or will drive too fast for the conditions.
Finding Who Is Responsible for a Rear-End Collision
Rear-end collision attorneys will investigate your case and determine who is financially responsible for your damages. You might assume the liable party is the driver who hit you, but liability can be more complex. Many accident claims involve multiple parties, including:
- Motorists: depending on the circumstances of your accident, the other driver who caused the rear-end collision is responsible. You will pursue compensation from the motorists’ insurance company.
- Government agency or municipality: unsafe road conditions like potholes and unpaved roads are dangerous conditions that cause rear-end crashes. Government entities can be held liable in some cases.
- Vehicle manufacturer: If a brake malfunctions or another vehicle component stops working, leading to an accident, you might be able to pursue damages from the manufacturers. Defective parts are preventable, and those who make or install them must be accountable for their actions.
Finding who is responsible is a very complex topic, and you must work with your Walterboro rear-end collision attorney to help find the culprit. Another complication is when multiple cars pile up. When multiple parties are in rear-end crashes, you will need extensive research to determine who is responsible.
Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
Some injuries will manifest immediately, while others will have delays. You must seek medical attention whether you are experiencing symptoms immediately or a few days later. Medical care serves two purposes: helping you get better and linking the car accident to your injuries.
Some rear-end collision injuries you can suffer include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injury
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts and bruises
- Spinal cord injuries
Types of Compensation in Rear-End Collisions
Damages will vary depending on individual circumstances. In rear-end collisions, the lead driver and their occupants will typically suffer the majority of injuries. Everyone in the vehicle will suffer different losses and injuries. While in the same car, you need individual solutions for your damages.
Some losses you can recover payment for are:
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Disfigurement
- Loss of future earnings and earning capacity
- Current and future medical care costs
- Pain and suffering
Wrongful Death
Families seeking compensation for the death of a loved one can seek damages, including:
- Final healthcare costs
- Funeral and burial arrangements
- Loss of household services and contributions
- Loss of guidance
- Loss of companionship or consortium
In either circumstance, if you have other losses not listed here, you can discuss them with your Walterboro rear-end collision lawyer. The Shelly Leeke Law Firm will review your circumstances and evaluate compensation options.
Determining Your Losses
Rear-end collision attorneys will look at various factors when determining how much compensation you can seek after an accident. Every rear-end collision is different, and the basis of your claim will often consider the following:
- Nature of the car accident
- Type and severity of injuries
- Your future prognosis
- The impact on your employment
- Your medical bills
A rear-end collision attorney in Walterboro, SC, will review your case, evidence, and more to determine what damage you can seek through an insurance claim or car accident lawsuit. It is best to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement before tabulating your settlement or accepting any offers. MMI is vital because you might need more medical care than you thought, and once you accept payment, you cannot ask for more.
Protecting Your Settlement Value
The insurance company consistently offers lower settlements, so they have less to pay. There are some actions you can take to help protect your settlement value.
The first is to get medical help right away for the injuries you suffer from the negligence of another party. You should also document your injuries and vehicle damage and gather any information you think is vital to your claim. A copy of the police report is crucial because it will provide details about witnesses, anyone involved in the accident, description of the accident, and location details.
The Benefits of Rear-End Collisions Attorneys
Seeking justice and compensation for your injuries from rear-end collisions is tenuous and complex. These processes can cause additional stress and are very time-consuming. To save time and avoid stress, a rear-end collision lawyer in Walterboro, SC, will handle the entire legal process for you.
Benefits you get from hiring a rear-end collision lawyer include:
- Establish liable parties
- Gathering evidence, including accident reports
- Reviewing local ordinances and laws
- File an insurance claim
- Negotiate fair damages with the insurance company
- Handle communications with different parties on your behalf
- Prepare for litigation and trial representation
Talk to a Walterboro Rear-End Collisions Attorney
There is no knowing how far an accident claim will go. Some settle within a few weeks, and others will take years. Most rear-end collision claims do not go to trial, but it is best to prepare for the possibility. Many claims settle during pre-litigation, but there is no guarantee that you will get compensation for your losses.
Contact the experienced rear-end collision lawyers at Shelly Leeke Law Firm to schedule a free case evaluation.
