Were you involved in a rear-end collision? In the aftermath of an accident like this, you might be facing painful injuries, financial strain, and emotional distress. Together, these circumstances can be very overwhelming, especially if you don’t know where to turn or how to proceed.
Thankfully, the good news is that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own—instead, reach out to a Long Beach car accident lawyer who has experience handling rear-end collision cases. At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we’re here to help.
With decades of experience handling car accident claims, we’ve recovered millions of dollars in compensation. If you need legal guidance and representation from a Long Beach rear-end collision lawyer, you can count on us. We prioritize putting our clients first. Always!
Leading Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are usually caused by driver negligence. This can take many different forms, namely the following:
- Driving while distracted: Cell phone use, eating, or adjusting the radio can lead to inattention.
- Tailgating: Following too closely reduces reaction time, which subsequently increases your risk of getting into a crash.
- Braking suddenly: Unexpected stops in the face of heavy traffic or intersections can contribute to collisions.
- Speeding: Driving too fast makes it difficult to stop safely, meaning you’re more likely to cause a collision by running into the cars in front of you.
- Driving in poor weather conditions: Rain and fog can reduce visibility on the road and decrease tire traction.
- Operating vehicles with brake or engine failures: Mechanical issues can prevent drivers from stopping in time.
When you hire a Long Beach rear-end collision attorney, your lawyer will actively look into the details of your case and work to pinpoint the cause of the accident.
In doing so, your Long Beach personal injury lawyer will also investigate the extent of the injuries you sustained due to the crash.
Common Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Even low-speed rear-end collisions can cause serious injuries for those involved in the crash. The following injuries are common among victims of rear-end accidents:
- Whiplash, pain, and stiffness
- Herniated discs and nerve damage can cause lasting pain.
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Fractures in your wrists, arms, or ribs
- Muscle strains and ligament tears
Recoverable Compensation for Rear-End Collision Victims
Victims of rear-end crashes may be entitled to an array of compensation opportunities based on the extent of their injuries and the damages they incurred as a result of the collision.
Here are some examples of compensation your rear-end collision attorney in Long Beach might be able to help you recover:
- The costs of emergency treatment, hospital bills, and prescription medications
- Compensation for time missed at work and reduced earning capacity
- Expenses associated with pain and suffering or emotional distress
- Costs associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle
Can You be Partially at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?
Yes, you can be partially at fault for a rear-end collision in California. Additionally, the state follows what is known as the comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident.
While rear-end collisions are often blamed on the driver in the back, there are situations where the driver in the front may share liability. For example, let’s say you suddenly braked without warning or stopped in an active lane without turning on your hazard lights.
In this instance, you could be assigned a percentage of fault for the crash. Other factors—such as failing to use turn signals, operating a vehicle with malfunctioning brake lights, or driving under the influence—can also contribute to shared liability among multiple parties.
What if the At-Fault Driver is Uninsured?
If the driver who hit you does not have insurance at the time of the collision, it might be harder to recover full compensation, though it’s not impossible. One of the first options worth exploring is uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
This is designed to cover damages when the at-fault driver does not have sufficient insurance. However, if you do not have UM/UIM coverage or if the damages exceed your policy limits, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
While you might be able to sue the uninsured driver, they might not have the financial means to pay a judgment. In cases like these, your rear-end collision lawyer in Long Beach can help you look into other sources of recovery, such as personal assets or third-party liability claims.
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What Should You Do if You Feel Fine After Getting into a Rear-End Collision?
Even if you feel fine after getting into a rear-end collision, you should still reach out to medical professionals and receive an evaluation. Some symptoms don’t appear immediately after the collision, but they could worsen over time, especially if your injuries are not treated right away.
How Long Do You have to File a Claim for a Rear-End Collision in Long Beach?
In California, the statute of limitations for car accident injury claims is two years from the date of the collision. If you fail to file a claim within this 24-month period, you could end up forfeiting your right to compensation, so it’s important to adhere to all deadlines that apply to your case.
What if the Insurance Company Blames You for the Rear-End Crash?
This is not uncommon. Insurance companies often try to shift blame. They are a business, after all, and they are incentivized to take action to lower the amount of money they have to pay to victims of rear-end crashes.
Insurance companies might try to say that you stopped too suddenly or your car had faulty brake lights at the time of the crash. However, if this happens, your lawyer can call upon the evidence in your case and defend you against insurers’ predatory practices.
Contact a Long Beach Rear-End Collision Attorney for More Information Today
If you were injured in a crash, a rear-end collision law firm in Long Beach can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t have to worry about legal fees.
Instead, you can focus on meeting with us, discussing the details of your situation, and learning how we can build a case on your behalf. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start advocating for you. Let our family take care of your family by reaching out to us today.
