Rear-end collisions can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial burdens, especially if you're unable to work or cover medical expenses. It would be best if you didn't bear the weight of someone else's negligence alone.
At The Ward Law Group, our dedicated Orlando car accident lawyers are here to guide you through your legal journey, offering support and expertise at every step. We're committed to helping you understand your rights and options, which may include pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
Our attorneys will handle the complexities of your case, from filing and managing claims to negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
If you've been injured in a rear-end collision, don't hesitate to contact us for a free case review. Call 855-DOLOR-55 now to speak with a compassionate team member and learn how we can help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision
We understand the frustration and confusion that often follow a rear-end accident. Here are some recommended actions to protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by seeking prompt medical care and following your healthcare provider's instructions.
- Document Expenses: Keep records of all medical bills, receipts, and charges related to the accident to support your claim for damages.
- Review Insurance Policy: Obtain a copy of your auto insurance policy if you don't already have one to understand your coverage.
- Communicate Cautiously: Politely decline to discuss specific details of the accident with insurance adjusters until you've consulted with our legal team.
- Social Media Caution: Refrain from posting photos or comments about the accident on social media platforms to avoid jeopardizing your case.
Remember, you can seek legal representation to advocate for your interests and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Florida's legal landscape can be complex, but our experienced attorneys are here to navigate it on your behalf. Contact The Ward Law Group today to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.
How The Ward Law Group Can Assist You After a Rear-End Collision?
At The Ward Law Group, our rear-end accident lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and legal services tailored to your unique situation.
Whether you're seeking compensation for your injuries or defending against unfair liability claims, we're here to advocate for your rights and best interests.
Here are some of the ways our experienced attorneys can assist you:
- Thorough Investigation: We'll review police reports, witness statements, accident photos and videos, and other evidence to determine liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Medical Documentation: We'll work with your healthcare provider to obtain detailed testimony or statements regarding the nature, extent, and prognosis of your injuries, ensuring that all relevant medical evidence is accurately represented.
- Financial Documentation: Our team will gather and organize expenses and bills related to your injuries, including medical costs, lost wages, and other economic damages, to support your compensation claim.
- Damage Evaluation: We'll assess all damages, both economic and non-economic, to ensure that you receive fair and adequate compensation for your losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Insurance Claim Management: We'll handle the entire insurance claims process on your behalf, from filing initial paperwork to tracking and managing your claim, to maximize your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
You didn't choose to endure the hardships caused by a rear-end collision, but you can choose to have a dedicated legal advocate to protect your rights and pursue justice.
Contact The Ward Law Group today for a free case review, and let us help you navigate this challenging time with confidence and peace of mind.
Compensation You Deserve After a Rear-End Collision
At The Ward Law Group, our Orlando rear-end accident lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a collision can take on your life.
While we cannot erase the trauma of the accident, we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve for your losses, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, therapy, prescription medications, medical equipment, and transportation to medical appointments.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work for recovery and medical appointments.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish endured as a result of the accident and injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, support, and intimacy you and your loved ones suffer.
- Disability and Disfigurement: Additional compensation for permanent disabilities, disfigurement, or impairments resulting from the accident.
- Wrongful Death: If you have lost a loved one in a rear-end collision, we can help you pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and the emotional trauma of losing a family member.
Under Florida law, you have a limited time to take legal action for personal injury cases, so it's crucial to act promptly. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and fight to maximize your compensation.
Don't navigate this challenging time alone. Contact The Ward Law Group today for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue justice and rebuild your life after a rear-end collision.
The Frequency of Rear-End Collisions
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle collision.
These incidents represent approximately 29 percent of all car accidents. Nearly 2 million rear-end collisions occur annually in the United States, resulting in approximately 500,000 injuries. These accidents lead to a significant number of visits to emergency rooms, hospitalizations, and missed workdays.
Most rear-end collisions are caused by distracted driving, negligent driving, and technical issues.
Second Driver Not Always at Fault
Recent judgments by the Florida Supreme Court have revealed the court's consideration of specific exemptions to this principle, potentially enabling the rear driver to challenge this presumption.
When the rear driver sustains injuries and damages, they may furnish evidence to a jury to establish fault or negligence on the part of the lead driver.
Cases in which the presumption of "following too closely" can be rebutted include:
- The lead vehicle abruptly and unexpectedly halted.
- The lead vehicle was illegally stationed in the roadway.
- Mechanical malfunction in the rear vehicle.
An attorney skilled in handling automobile and truck accidents understands that Florida's comparative fault rule may offer an opportunity for the rear driver, acting as a plaintiff, to overcome this presumption.
By presenting evidence suggesting that the lead driver contributed to the collision, the rear driver may secure compensation for losses resulting from injury.
Did the front driver abruptly change lanes in front of the rear driver or suddenly stop, precipitating the rear-end collision? If so, legal counsel can present this evidence during trial on behalf of the rear driver to contest the presumption that the rear driver bears sole responsibility.
Similarly, suppose the front driver cut in front of the rear driver and the rear driver was distracted, speeding, or otherwise contributing to the accident. In that case, both drivers may share fault to varying degrees.
If you rear-ended someone due to the other party's negligence, you may be entitled to partial or total damages. A jury will determine the percentage of fault attributed to each driver in the accident.
If you are deemed entirely blameless and the lead driver entirely liable, you may recover 100 percent of the damages.
Even if a jury finds you 90 percent responsible and the other driver 10 percent at fault, you may still be entitled to 10 percent of the losses.
Recovering Damages in Rear-End Auto Accidents
Since some rear-end collisions inflict more damage on the vehicles involved than on the occupants, many individuals mistakenly believe that ensuring everyone involved has insurance coverage is their primary concern.
However, rear-end collisions are often not mere minor accidents or cases of simple whiplash. Resulting injuries can profoundly incapacitate or fatally injure occupants of either vehicle.
High-speed rear-end collisions may lead to spinal cord injuries, nerve damage, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, herniated discs, and amputations.
Even low-speed collisions can cause significant harm. Crashes where the rear vehicle is traveling at less than 20 mph at the time of impact can result in soft tissue damage, fractures, and neck and cervical injuries, as the impact propels the driver's and passengers' bodies forward while their heads remain relatively stationary.
Skilled Orlando Accident Attorneys for Rear-End Collisions
Navigating fault in rear-end accidents involves intricate legal considerations of liability. While Florida's standard presumption of negligence on the part of the rear driver often applies, there are exceptions.
The following driver is expected to anticipate potential stops by the lead vehicle, drive within the vehicle's capabilities, and maintain a safe distance from the car ahead.
The seasoned rear-end collision injury lawyers at The Ward Law Group possess extensive experience handling various motor vehicle accident cases, including rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, side-impact collisions, SUV rollovers, and accidents involving 18-wheelers.
Our adept understanding of these legal matters enables us to assess all parties' liability comprehensively.
If you've sustained injuries in a rear-end collision, consulting with a skilled attorney can help determine your eligibility for compensation.
Whether engaging in negotiations with insurance companies pursuing civil litigation for personal injury before a jury or seeking a favorable verdict and monetary judgment, we stand ready to assist you.
How to Avoid Rear-End Accidents
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: One of the most effective ways to prevent rear-end collisions is to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. The Ward Law Group recommends following the "three-second rule," which means leaving at least three seconds of space between your vehicle and the one ahead. This allows for adequate reaction time if the car in front brakes suddenly.
- Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions: Distractions are a leading cause of rear-end collisions. The Ward Law Group advises drivers to stay focused on the road and avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio while driving. Keeping your eyes on the road and being aware of your surroundings can help you react quickly to changes in traffic conditions.
- Anticipate Stops and Slowdowns: Proactively anticipating stops and slowdowns in traffic can help prevent rear-end collisions. The Ward Law Group encourages drivers to scan the road ahead and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary. This includes paying attention to brake lights, traffic signals, and road signs that indicate upcoming changes in speed.
- Use Defensive Driving Techniques: Practicing defensive driving techniques can significantly reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. The Ward Law Group advises drivers to be vigilant and anticipate the actions of other motorists on the road. This includes maintaining awareness of surrounding vehicles, signaling lane changes and turns in advance, and being prepared to yield or stop when necessary.
- Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Ensuring your vehicle is maintained correctly is essential for safe driving and preventing accidents.
The Ward Law Group recommends regular maintenance checks, including brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid checks, to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or other mechanical issues can increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
By following these recommendations and practicing safe driving habits, motorists can reduce the likelihood of being involved in rear-end collisions and contribute to overall road safety.
Contact an Orlando Rear-End Accident Attorney
In the aftermath of a rear-end collision, a proficient auto accident lawyer will scrutinize the particulars of your case to ascertain potential avenues for compensation.
Whether advocating during negotiations with insurance providers or advocating for your rights in civil court, our team is dedicated to safeguarding your interests and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
At The Ward Law Group, we prioritize road safety and strive to educate motorists on preventing these types of accidents. By following straightforward guidelines and practicing safe driving habits, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision.
Call us today at 855-DOLOR-55 for a free consultation!