Talk to a rear-end collision lawyer in San Jose, California, if you were injured in one of these accidents. Whether a distracted driver fails to stop in time or a sudden traffic slowdown causes an unexpected impact, accident victims may face costly medical treatment, property damage, and emotional distress.
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we believe in treating each client like family. Our legal team provides personalized support throughout the legal process, ensuring that accident victims receive the attention they deserve.
If you were injured in a rear-end auto accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our San Jose car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights.
Steps After a Rear-End Collision to Protect Your Rights
A rear-end accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with bodily injury, property damage, and financial losses. A San Jose personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Gather Important Information
Collecting evidence at the scene can help strengthen your insurance claim and support your case if you decide to pursue legal action. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
Witnesses may have valuable information about what happened, especially if the at-fault driver was engaging in distracted driving or reckless behavior. Get their contact details, along with the insurance information of the other driver.
Check for Injuries and Call the Authorities
Your health and safety should always come first. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Emergency responders can provide medical treatment, and a police report will document the accident scene.
You should see a doctor after an accident, even if you feel fine. Not only could your adrenaline be masking potentially serious injuries, but the medical records help establish that any injuries you sustained–even relatively minor ones–can be connected to the car accident.
Communicate Cautiously with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize settlements to reduce their costs. It is important to report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible, but be mindful of what you say. Avoid admitting fault, as comparative negligence laws could impact your ability to recover financial compensation.
Before accepting any settlement offers, consider consulting a rear-end collision attorney in San Jose to make sure you receive a fair amount for your medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Keep Track of Expenses and Deadlines
Proper documentation can strengthen your accident claim and help you secure compensation for damages. Save all medical bills and records, as they show the extent of your injuries and treatment plan. Keep estimates and invoices for vehicle damage and other accident-related expenses. If you are unable to work due to your injuries, track lost wages as well.
Keeping organized records and staying informed about the legal process can help you protect your rights and seek the financial recovery you need.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collision
The impact of a rear-end collision can cause severe injuries, property damage, and significant financial losses. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help drivers take precautions and recognize when driver negligence may have played a role.
Some of the leading causes of rear-end accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: There are many types of distracted driving. Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or using a GPS can take a driver’s focus off the road. Even a brief distraction can lead to a rear-end auto accident, especially in busy intersections.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Driving too fast reduces reaction time, making it harder to stop in time. Speeding through dangerous intersections or crowded streets increases the risk of rear-ended vehicle crashes.
- Tailgating: Following too closely does not allow enough space to stop safely. Sudden stops or unexpected traffic slowdowns can result in accident injuries, such as neck or spinal injuries.
- Drunk Driving and Drowsy Driving: A drunk driver or someone who is overly tired may have delayed reactions, making it harder to stop in time and avoid a rear-end collision.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and wet roads can make it more difficult to stop safely. Road safety measures like keeping a greater distance between cars can reduce the likelihood of auto collisions in poor weather.
- Mechanical Failures: Brake failure, worn tires, or other mechanical issues can cause a driver to lose control, leading to accidents that result in bodily injury and property damage.
Drivers who cause rear-end collisions may be held responsible for financial compensation to cover medical treatment, lost wages, and emotional distress. In some cases, insurance companies may dispute fault, making it important for injured people to consult a lawyer and understand their rights.
(310) 526-8383Injuries Commonly Associated with Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes may seem minor at first, but they often cause serious injuries that require ongoing medical treatment. Some of the most common injuries seen in these accidents include:
- Whiplash: This neck injury occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward. It can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and headaches.
- Spinal injuries: Rear-end crashes can damage the spine, leading to herniated discs, nerve damage, or paralysis.
- Head trauma: The force of impact can cause traumatic brain injuries, concussions, or skull fractures.
- Broken bones: Arms, wrists, and ribs are especially vulnerable in rear-end accidents.
- Internal injuries: Organs can suffer damage from the force of the crash, leading to internal bleeding or other life-threatening conditions.
- Knee and leg injuries: Sudden stops can cause the lower body to hit the dashboard or seats, leading to fractures or ligament tears.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychological effects can impact accident victims long after the physical injuries heal.
Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible after an accident. Medical records can also serve as important evidence in a personal injury lawsuit.
Consult a San Jose Rear-End Collision Lawyer Today
A San Jose rear-end collision attorney at Omega Law Group can help you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation. If you were injured in a rear-end auto accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain, and other damages.
Consulting with our team of attorneys may provide clarity on the next steps and what financial recovery may be possible in your case.
