Alabama Rear-End Collision Attorneys
There are many misconceptions about rear-end collisions. Many people think rear-end crashes are just minor accidents or “fender benders.” Others believe that the second vehicle, or the one that hit another from behind, is always automatically at fault.
Neither of these things are always necessarily true, however. Rear-end collisions can cause very serious injuries, and there are times when the driver who was hit from behind could be found at fault.
It’s important to consult with an experienced rear-end accident lawyer in Alabama if you have been hurt in this type of crash. Contact the dedicated attorneys at Serious Injury Law Group today to schedule a free consultation to talk about your legal rights.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are crashes that involve the front end of one vehicle striking the rear of another. Drivers are required to maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of them, even when road conditions are poor. Due to this, the driver who hit another vehicle is often at fault. However, there are certainly times when the driver in front can be liable for the accident.
Some of the common causes of rear-end accidents include:
- Tailgating: When drivers do not leave the required amount of space in front of them, they are tailgating. This prevents motorists from being able to safely stop in an emergency situation and can lead to a rear-end crash.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving doesn’t only include texting and driving. It also involves eating, looking at a GPS, and looking at the radio or other panels. When a driver is looking at something in the vehicle and not the road ahead, they may cause a rear-end wreck.
- Drowsy driving: When a person is fatigued behind the wheel, the focus is not always on the road. Additionally, if a driver closes his or her eyes for even just a few seconds, a rear-end collision can easily occur.
- Driving while impaired: Drugs and alcohol slow a person’s reaction time and distort perception. Impaired drivers may not realize another vehicle is so close, or they may simply fail to see a car in front of them.
- Speeding: Just like tailgating, speeding often means drivers do not have enough time to stop before crashing into the vehicle in front of them.
- Sudden stops: Sometimes vehicles in front stop suddenly. This can be due to any of the reasons above, which are considered negligence, or for no reason at all. When this is the case, the vehicle in front could be found at fault for the accident.
Any rear-end accident that results in injuries should be investigated to determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault. If you believe your injury was caused by another driver’s negligent behavior, please contact our law firm today for a free consultation on your legal rights.
Major Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions
Some of the most common major injuries caused by rear-end collisions include:
- Whiplash: Whiplash is extremely common in rear-end collisions. This injury occurs when the body remains stationary and the neck moves back and forth in rapid succession. Whiplash becomes even more serious when the driver who is struck is caught unaware and does not have a chance to brace for impact.
- Back injuries: Any accident, even one that doesn’t involve high speeds, can cause serious back injuries. The force of the impact causes the spine and the discs in the lower back to compress, which can lead to ruptured or slipped discs. These injuries are even worse when a rear-end collision happens at high speeds.
- Airbag injuries: Typically for an airbag to deploy, the vehicle must have been traveling more than 20 miles per hour. When they do deploy, it can cause burns to the face and scalp and broken bones.
- Paralysis: If the spinal cord or the brain sustains a very serious injury in a rear-end crash, there is a chance the victim could suffer from partial or complete paralysis.
- Head and brain injuries: During a rear-end collision, it’s easy for the head to bang into the steering wheel, the dashboard, or any other part of the car. Accident victims should always see a doctor immediately if they suspect a brain or head injury.
- Facial disfigurement: The face can also hit objects inside the vehicle. When these injuries are very serious, it can result in permanent facial disfigurement and scarring.
No matter what type of injury you have suffered in a rear-end collision, it is crucial that you see a doctor as soon as possible. This will not only ensure that you receive proper treatment, but it will also begin the documentation process for your personal injury claim.
Time Limit for Filing an Injury Claim
Alabama, like all other states, has a statute of limitations on filing an injury lawsuit after a rear-end collision. The statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file your personal injury claim. Any claims filed after the statute expires are usually thrown out by the courts, meaning you are barred from recovering compensation for the accident.
In Alabama, the statute of limitations on rear-end accident injury claims is two years. However, it is critical that you speak with an attorney as soon as possible after your crash to ensure your legal team has time to build a strong case for maximum compensation.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Rear-End Injury Claim?
In Alabama, you are entitled to certain compensation after a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. The most common types of compensation after a rear-end collision include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Past and future lost income
- Damage to your vehicle
- Any other expenses you incurred
In cases where the liable party acted with gross negligence or recklessness, the victim may also be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the at-fault driver.
How a Rear-End Collision Attorney Can Help
When a car accident is very minor, involving only damage to vehicles, you may not need an attorney to help with your claim. However, if there are serious injuries or any question of fault, you must speak to a rear-end accident attorney. While working on your case, an attorney will:
- Take over all communication and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf
- Collect evidence establishing another driver was at fault, including hiring accident reconstruction experts
- Calculate the full amount of your losses so you can claim all the compensation you are entitled to receive
- Ensure all court paperwork is filed properly and on time
- Perform all the legwork associated with your case so you can focus on getting better
If you have been hurt in a rear-end collision, don’t try to handle your personal injury claim on your own. At Serious Injury Law Group, our Alabama rear-end collision lawyers will fight fiercely for the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Let us take care of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today for your free consultation.