Rear-end accidents make up nearly half of all two-vehicle crashes, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). In Smyrna, rear-end collisions cause too many unnecessary accident injuries. If you or a loved one were a victim of a crash, contact a Smyrna rear-end collisions lawyer.
You could have significant damages after a rear-end accident. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you seek compensation for your costs. With over 20 years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases.
Our lawyers do not charge a fee unless we win your case. To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
What a Rear-End Collision Means in Smyrna
A rear-end collision happens when the front of one car hits another from behind. Rear-end accidents can occur at any speed, and they result in a variety of damages. Some rear-end crashes are minor, while others are catastrophic.
The rear driver is usually at fault for the accident. However, every accident is different. If another driver caused your crash, you have legal options. You can pursue financial recovery for your damages like:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Future medical costs
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
An experienced rear-end collisions lawyer can help determine your damages. They’ll calculate your case’s value and help you file an insurance claim. If you were not at fault, you can seek damages as compensation (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4).
If the other driver’s insurance company tries to contact you, be wary. It’s best to have a lawyer before speaking with the insurance company. Otherwise, the insurer might try to use something you say against you.
To speak with a Smyrna rear-end collisions lawyer about your accident, contact John Foy & Associates. We can evaluate your case and determine your options. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.
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Top Causes of Smyrna Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end accidents can happen for many reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Tailgating: following another vehicle at an unsafe distance
- Excessive speeding: going too fast to stop and avoid a crash
- Driving under the influence: drinking and driving or taking other impairing substances
- Hazardous lane changes: failing to yield or signal before merging into another lane
- Distracted driving: texting or doing another activity that distracts from the task of driving
- Unsafe weather conditions: ice, rain, fog, or other weather that prevents a driver from braking
Driver negligence is usually the cause of a rear-end accident. If another driver was at fault for your crash, don’t wait to take action. Document the scene and contact an experienced lawyer.
Common Injuries from Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes can cause many different injuries. The most common is whiplash, which is a neck injury. Whiplash is common with any auto accident, but it’s especially prevalent with rear-end accidents.
Other rear-end collisions injuries can include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Lacerations
- Facial injuries
- Broken bones
After an accident, you must get medical care as soon as possible. If you have severe injuries, call for emergency medical attention. Otherwise, see a doctor as soon as you can.
A rear-end accident lawyer can calculate your injury costs after the accident. They’ll account for future medical treatment too. If possible, you’ll want to complete treatment before filing your personal injury claim.
Whiplash Symptoms After a Rear-End Accident
Whiplash is the most common accident injury. It’s also the most misunderstood.
Whiplash injuries do not show up on imaging tests. They also take time to fully manifest. If you wait too long to get treatment for whiplash, it can hurt your case.
Common symptoms of whiplash include:
- Headaches
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Dizziness
- Tingling or numbness in the neck or arms
- Ringing in the ears
- Fatigue
- Depression or anxiety
It’s essential to know the signs of whiplash. After your accident, see a doctor who can evaluate you for any injuries. If you notice pain later, schedule a follow up with your doctor immediately.
If you wait to get treatment, the insurance company will question your injuries. It might say that you weren’t hurt badly enough since you waited to see a doctor. Have a medical professional evaluate you after a crash, even if you feel okay.
Never Accept the First Settlement Offer from Insurance
After your accident, the insurance company might offer you an upfront settlement. The quick cash might seem appealing to pay for your costs. However, do not accept the first offer. Talk to a lawyer before taking any money or signing anything.
Insurance companies will try to get you to settle quickly. They’re hoping you’ll take the first offer and end your case. But this leaves a lot of money on the table for you.
Your rear-end collisions lawyer will need to determine your full accident costs. Only then will you know how a fair settlement looks for your case. If the insurance company sends a lowball offer, your lawyer will work to negotiate.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision in Smyrna
After a rear-end collision, there are ways you can protect your rights. Here are some actions we recommend all injured drivers do after an accident.
Call the Police
Call 911 to report the accident to the police. Officers should create an accident report. Ask how you can get a copy of this report for your records.
Exchange Information
Exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full names
- Contact information
- Driver’s license numbers
- Insurance policy information
Get Medical Attention
If you or anyone else has life-threatening injuries, call for an ambulance. Otherwise, see a doctor as soon as possible after the crash. Get copies of all medical records and bills.
Document the Scene
Do what you can do document how the accident scene looked and occurred:
- Take pictures of the entire accident scene.
- Photograph your injuries and vehicle damage.
- Talk to any witnesses and get their contact information.
- Take note of any traffic cameras that might have captured the accident.
- Write down your memories of the accident and how it’s affected you.
Contact a Rear-End Collisions Lawyer
Call a lawyer who can help you with all of the above and more. They can begin investigating your crash immediately. An experienced lawyer will give you the best chance of fair compensation.
Talk to a Smyrna Rear-End Collisions Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have 20-plus years of experience helping accident victims win what they deserve. We are not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies and fight for you.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. We will not collect a fee unless we win you compensation.
To get started for FREE today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
