The rear-end collision is probably the most common type of car crash. It takes just a few seconds of distraction to bump into the car in front. However, despite the simple explanation of how this crash happens, it is not as easy to prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident. You will need to consult with an experienced Mableton car accident lawyer to help you win your claim.
Here are the most important facts about this type of car accidents from the point of view of establishing liability.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collision
Distracted driving remains the number one cause of all car crashes. It takes many forms, such as:
- Texting and driving
- Eating and drinking while driving
- Interacting with the entertainment or navigation system of the car
- Talking to passengers in the car
Besides distracted driving, rear-end collisions are also caused by failure to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, especially in poor weather conditions. Experts have proven that bringing a car to a full stop on a wet road takes twice the distance needed on a dry road.
Other causes of rear-end crashes are:
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving (especially tailgating, which means driving purposefully too close to the car in front)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Steps to Take after a Rear-End Accident
As we stated in the beginning of this article, proving that the other driver is at fault for the accident is not simple. And it is essential to be able to prove it, because Georgia uses a comparative negligence principle in determining who has the right to recover damages after a crash.
You need to be less than 50% at fault to be eligible to file a claim. By correlation, you must prove that the other driver was 50% or more responsible for the accident. Here are the steps a Mableton car accident lawyer recommends taking after the crash:
1. Report the Accident and Document the Crash Scene
Call 9-1-1 to report the car crash and remain at the scene until police officers arrive to investigate what happened. In the meantime, exchange contact and insurance details with the other drivers and take photos and videos of the accident scene.
If there are eyewitnesses, talk to them and ask them to give a statement describing what they saw. Do not forget to obtain their names and contact details, because your attorney may need to talk to them later on.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you believe that you did not suffer any injuries, you must go to the nearest ER or hospital to seek medical attention. Diagnostic tests may prove that you suffered internal injuries, which do not show symptoms immediately.
Also, timely diagnosis of your injuries will help you prove that they were caused by the accident, and not later in an unrelated incident. Failure to prove causation is one of the most common reasons why car accident claims are denied.
3. Obtain a Copy of the Police Report
The accident report prepared by the police officers who investigated the crash is usually ready a few days after the crash. You can obtain it in person from any precinct or police headquarters or by mail.
The report is an essential piece of evidence, as it contains the officer’s observations about what may have caused the crash.
4. Do Not Talk to an Insurance Adjuster on Your Own
After you and the other driver report the crash to your respective insurers, you will get a visit from an insurance adjuster. The adjuster is not your friend. They want either to convince you to accept a lowball settlement or to get you to admit fault and contradict yourself by asking tricky questions.
You should not talk to the adjuster on your own. You are within your rights to say that you are still recovering from your injuries and that your lawyer will contact the insurance company quickly.
5. Consult with an Experienced Mableton Car Accident Lawyer!
A skilled Mableton car accident lawyer is your only true ally after a rear-end collision. We know how to analyze the available evidence and prove the other driver’s fault. We will evaluate your damages accurately and negotiate a fair settlement amount with the other driver’s insurer.
As a new client, you benefit from a free case review, so call us today at 678-825-6004!
