If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, seeking legal guidance to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve is important.
At Levine Law, our Denver rear-end car accident lawyer understands the impact a head-on collision can have on victims and their families. For this reason, we are committed to helping victims protect their rights and pursue fair compensation.
Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies or need to prove the other driver’s fault, our experienced team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Understanding Rear-End Car Accidents
A rear-end car accident happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents typically occur at intersections, in traffic jams, or on busy highways. In most cases, the driver who hits the vehicle from behind is presumed to be at fault, but exceptions exist.
Recent statistics show that more than 1.4 million rear-end accidents occur yearly in the United States. These accidents resulted in more than 500,000 injuries and 7,183 deaths.
In Denver, rear-end accidents are particularly common due to the city’s growing population and the corresponding increase in traffic congestion. As more people move to the area, the streets become busier, leading to higher chances of collisions.
According to local statistics, rear-end collisions account for a significant percentage of overall traffic accidents in the region, highlighting a pressing concern for both drivers and law enforcement.
Several common causes contribute to these rear-end accidents, including the following.
Distracted driving
This has become a major issue, as many drivers are often seen talking on the phone, sending text messages, or adjusting the radio while behind the wheel. These distractions can divert attention from the road, causing drivers to fail to notice that traffic has slowed or come to a stop unexpectedly. The consequences of such distractions can be severe, often resulting in serious injuries and damages.
Tailgating
Another frequent cause of rear-end collisions is following too closely, also known as tailgating. This practice significantly reduces reaction time; if the lead vehicle suddenly brakes, the tailgating driver may not have enough time to stop and avoid a collision. Not only is this behavior dangerous, but it can also lead to frustration among drivers who are trying to maintain a safe distance.
Weather conditions
Denver’s weather can be unpredictable, with snow, rain, or ice often creating slippery road conditions. These adverse weather factors can make it challenging for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the likelihood of losing traction and ultimately leading to rear-end accidents. It’s crucial for drivers to adjust their speed and be extra cautious during inclement weather to minimize the risk of accidents.
Common Injuries in Rear-End Accidents
The severity of injuries in rear-end accidents can vary depending on factors like speed, the size of the vehicles involved, and whether seat belts were worn. While some accidents result in minor injuries, others can cause long-lasting physical and emotional trauma.
Common injuries from rear-end accidents include:
- Broken bones: The impact of a rear-end collision can cause fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Burn injuries: In severe accidents, fires or explosions can occur, leading to burn injuries.
- Facial scarring: Airbags deploying can result in cuts, bruises, or scarring on the face.
- Neck and back injuries: Whiplash is a common injury, but more serious neck and back issues, such as herniated discs, can occur.
- Paralysis: In extreme cases, spinal cord damage from a rear-end collision can lead to partial or full paralysis.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in a loss of mobility or sensation.
- Traumatic brain injuries: A sudden impact can cause brain injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe trauma.
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Types of Compensation Recoverable
Victims of rear-end accidents may be entitled to recover various types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of their case. Our Denver rear end car accident lawyer will work diligently to ensure you receive fair compensation for both tangible and intangible losses.
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital visits, surgery, physical therapy, and the cost of medical devices like braces or wheelchairs.
- Lost wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be compensated for the income you lose during your recovery period.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident can be compensated.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Mental trauma: Rear-end accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and compensation for mental trauma is often available.
Proving a Rear-End Accident and Liability
Establishing fault in a rear-end accident is usually straightforward, as the driver who strikes the vehicle from behind is generally presumed to be at fault.
However, exceptions can arise in certain situations, such as when the front driver stops suddenly without apparent reason or when road conditions are particularly hazardous, such as during inclement weather or construction. To ensure your case is as strong as possible, it’s essential to gather comprehensive evidence that proves the other driver’s liability.
- Vehicle damage: The damage to the rear of your car, along with the front of the other driver’s vehicle, will indicate a rear-end collision. Detailed photographs of the damage, taken from multiple angles, can effectively illustrate the severity of the impact and support your claim.
- Skid marks: Visible skid marks at the scene can help demonstrate how the accident unfolded. These marks can indicate the speed at which the other driver was approaching and whether they attempted to brake before the collision, which could further clarify the circumstances of the accident.
- Witnesses: Testimony from people who witnessed the accident can significantly strengthen your claim. Gathering contact information from witnesses and encouraging them to provide written statements or to speak with your attorney can add valuable perspective to your case.
- Dashcam footage: Video evidence from dashcams can provide a clear picture of the moments leading up to the accident. If you have a dashcam installed in your vehicle or if a passerby captured the incident on their camera, this footage can be critical in establishing fault.
It’s also crucial to avoid giving too much information to the other driver’s insurance company, as they may use your statements against you to reduce your settlement offer. Instead, it’s wise to rely on your Denver rear-end car accident lawyer to handle all communication and negotiations on your behalf.
General Rules of Fault in Rear-End Collisions
Drivers are expected to maintain a safe following distance and to react appropriately to changing traffic conditions. The law typically holds that the rear driver should be attentive and prepared to stop, so they are often considered responsible for the accident.
However, there are notable exceptions where fault may not solely lie with the rear driver, such as:
- Sudden stops: If the front driver suddenly stops without a justifiable reason, such as an unexpected obstacle or emergency, the rear driver may not have had sufficient time to react, potentially resulting in shared liability between both parties.
- Mechanical failures: If the rear driver’s brakes fail due to a manufacturer defect or other unforeseen mechanical issues, the responsibility may shift to the vehicle manufacturer. In such cases, thorough investigations are often required to establish whether the defect was known or if it contributed significantly to the accident.
How Our Denver Rear End Car Accident Lawyer at Levine Law Can Help
Here’s how we can help:
- Gathering evidence: We’ll collect all relevant evidence, including vehicle damage photos, medical records, witness statements, and traffic camera footage.
- Handling negotiations: Our team will communicate directly with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement and prevent them from taking advantage of you.
- Filing legal claims: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we will take your case to court to fight for your best interests.
We understand the challenges rear-end collisions can create for victims and their families, and we’re committed to helping you recover.
Contact Our Denver Rear End Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end car accident in Denver, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Contact our Denver rear-end car accident lawyer at Levine Law for a free consultation.
We’ll take the time to carefully review your case, review your legal options in detail, and guide you through getting the compensation you deserve. Reach out today, and let’s start working on your path to recovery.
