If you were injured in a rear-end accident, you may have the right to recover compensation for the medical expenses, lost wages, car repairs, and other damages you suffer. However, you will have to show that the other driver was at fault for the collision, whether you were the front or rear driver. The award-winning trial attorneys at Tiano O’Dell know how to aggressively pursue compensation following rear-end accidents. Contact us today at (304) 915-0823 for a free case review.
What Causes Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents. They occur when the front of one vehicle hits the back of another vehicle. Common causes of rear-end accidents include:
- Inattention
- Distractions
- Following too closely
- Intoxication
- Speeding
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that rear-end accidents are responsible for about one-third of all motor vehicle collisions. Approximately 1.7 million rear-end collisions occur annually and are responsible for killing 1,700 people and injuring half a million more.
Common Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Due to the direction of impact, some of the most common injuries from rear-end accidents include:
- Herniated disk due to spinal compression or the dislocation of spinal discs
- Whiplash when the victim’s neck is jolted backward and forward during the collision
- Facial injuries when the victim’s head impacts a hard surface in the vehicle, such as the steering wheel or dashboard
- Fractures when part of the body makes violent impact with the vehicle
Who Is Responsible for a Rear-End Accident?
West Virginia law requires drivers to maintain a safe traveling distance from other motorists, so when a rear-end collision occurs, the rear driver is usually found liable. The rear driver may be responsible for the accident because the driver is following too closely, and this can be considered negligent.
However, the front driver may be responsible for rear-end accidents in some situations, such as if they:
- Were reversing
- Had a mechanical problem
- Intentionally caused the accident by tapping on their brakes
- Was intoxicated
- Switched lanes into the path of the rear driver
Proving Fault in a Rear-End Accident
Because West Virginia is an at-fault state when it comes to car accidents, you must be able to show the other driver was responsible for the rear-end accident before you can recover compensation for your injuries. Strong evidence that may help establish liability includes:
- The accident report
- Photos or videos of the accident scene
- Witness statements
- Physical damage to the vehicles
What to Do After a Rear-End Accident
If you were involved in a rear-end accident, take the following steps to protect your legal rights:
- Report to the authorities
- Seek prompt medical attention
- Get the other driver’s information, including their contact information, insurance information, and a description of their vehicles
- Ask any witnesses for their contact information
- Take photos or video of the accident scene
- Contact an experienced rear-end accident lawyer as soon as possible
- Keep track of all documents and evidence related to the collision
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer for Assistance
If you were involved in a rear-end accident in West Virginia, turn to the experienced Charleston car accident lawyers at Tiano O’Dell. You can rely on our extensive experience handling these types of claims and our track record of success. Contact us today at (304) 915-0823 for your free case review.