If you were involved in a rear-end collision you are probably wondering about the legal implications in Georgia and what the next steps are. An experienced Fayetteville car accident lawyer will help you understand all the intricacies and challenges stemming from this situation, from determining fault to recovering damages for your injuries.
Key Statistics on Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end crashes are one of the most frequent types of collision, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports. Accounting for about 29 percent of all crashes in the U.S., rear-end collisions cause a significant number of deaths and injuries.
Because of the problem’s scope, numerous initiatives have been launched through the years to reduce the number of such crashes. Issues like speeding, driving under the influence, and distracted driving, however, still stand in the way of significant improvement.
Who Is at Fault?
The Georgia Department of Driver Services Drivers’ Manual states that a rear-end crash is usually caused by following another vehicle too closely. Hence, the blame for the crash will almost always fall on the driver who is behind.
Georgia traffic regulations require the maintenance of enough distance between vehicles. The aim of this rule is precisely the prevention of rear-end collisions. Based on this recommendation, the driver behind will bear the legal responsibility for the crash in most instances.
A few exceptions to the rule do exist. The driver in front could be considered at fault under the following circumstances:
- They are driving a defective or malfunctioning vehicle (for example, having broken taillights that don’t signal braking to the car behind)
- They fail to address a driving hazard correctly (for example, undergoing a car accident and not pulling over or clearly indicating there may be an issue with the vehicle)
- They make a sudden maneuver that prevents other drivers from reacting adequately
- They have been hit from behind, in turn hitting a vehicle in front (a chain reaction of rear-end collisions)
Georgia car accident lawyers often have to deal with such complicated cases that make the fault more difficult to establish. Whether you have hit another car or you’ve been hit from behind, consulting an experienced legal professional should be one of the first things to do after the crash.
Consequences of Rear-End Collisions in Georgia
Depending on the driving speed and the collision circumstances, a rear-end accident can have serious repercussions.
Rear-ending will almost always cause some vehicle damage. In more severe cases, injuries and even death may occur.
Typical injuries that people experience in a rear-end collision include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Permanent disabilities like walking difficulties, paralysis, chronic migraines, breathing difficulties
It’s very important to report health problems resulting from a rear-end collision, even if they’re minor ones. Something that appears minor at first could eventually prove to be life-altering. Professional medical advice and a consultation with a Georgia personal injury lawyer will both help you understand the consequences, the effect they’ll have on your life in the long run, and the compensation you’re entitled to.
Holding the At-Fault Party Accountable
Your Georgia car accident attorney will carefully examine all of the rear-end collision documentation to determine who’s at fault and whether you could build a lawsuit.
Even if you are the rear vehicle driver, it’s still a good idea to see a lawyer. Many people assume automatically that the driver behind is always to blame. As already mentioned, however, there could be circumstances that put the blame on the driver of the front vehicle.
Pursuing legal action is an especially important step whenever you are involved in a very serious rear-end collision. Your insurance will cover damages and healthcare costs to some extent. Serious medical complications and permanent disabilities that keep you from making a living in the future, however, wouldn’t be included in that amount. That’s when seeking a car accident settlement or lawsuit starts making sense.
Get Support from an Experienced Fayetteville Car Accident Attorney
Are you unsure about who’s responsible for a rear-end collision? Has such a crash left you with serious health complications and lots of medical bills?
Wade Law’s experienced car accident legal team in Fayetteville is ready to help. Contact us at 770-282-1188 or schedule your free initial consultation.
