Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents, resulting in whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. If another driver’s negligence caused a crash that injured you, an experienced car crash attorney can help you protect your rights. The injuries from rear-end collisions can be costly, and we can hold the responsible party accountable for your losses, seeking fair compensation on your behalf.
At Barrios Virguez Attorneys: Accident & Injury Law, we handle claims following rear-end car accidents in Duluth. We defend what matters, bringing legal guidance and compassion to every client we represent.
Laws to Know After Being Rear-Ended
In a rear-end car accident, state law generally presumes that the driver of the following vehicle is at fault. All drivers have a legal duty to maintain a safe following distance and be aware of changing traffic conditions. Failing to stop in time to avoid a collision typically indicates a breach of this duty.
The presumption that the driver of the car behind is at fault can be challenged in certain circumstances, and a court may find the front driver partially or entirely liable for causing the crash. Georgia Code § 51-12-33, which outlines the state’s modified comparative negligence system, describes how if a court finds you 50 percent or more responsible for the accident, you cannot recover any damages. Contact a Duluth lawyer to learn more about the laws that apply to rear-end car crash claims.
Is the Rear Driver Always at Fault in a Rear-End Crash?
The driver at the back is often entirely at fault in a rear-end collision, but the driver at the front may share liability if they were negligent and their actions contributed to the accident. This includes a driver abruptly and unnecessarily slamming on their brakes, also known as a brake check.
Other examples of negligent behavior by the driver at the front of the accident include having malfunctioning brake lights and reversing into the car behind. An attorney from our firm in Duluth can help you gather evidence and determine the cause of your rear-end collision.
Can Multiple Drivers Be Liable in a Rear-End Pileup Accident?
In rear-end accidents that involve multiple drivers, determining fault can be more complicated. Often, the driver who causes the first collision is liable for the resulting crashes. However, other drivers might share liability if they were following too closely or had faulty brake lights. Our team in Duluth can investigate what happened in a rear-end pileup accident, identifying the at-fault parties to secure compensation.
Mistakes To Avoid After a Rear-End Collision
If another driver’s actions cause a rear-end crash that involves you, your actions immediately afterwards can greatly influence your potential recovery. A major mistake is admitting fault to anyone at the accident scene or to an insurance adjuster. A casual apology or saying that you are okay can be used against you later. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney before speaking with your insurance company.
Another mistake is not visiting a doctor right away, even if you have no visible injuries. A prompt medical evaluation creates a documented record of your injuries and may help your claim. You should also try to gather evidence, such as photos and witness information, at the scene of the Duluth rear-end collision.
Contact Our Legal Team in Duluth for Guidance on Your Rear-End Car Crash Claim
Our approachable, bilingual lawyers are dedicated to defending what matters and pursuing fair compensation for accident victims. If someone else’s negligence caused a car accident that harmed you, we can guide you through the legal process of filing a claim.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation and learn more about seeking justice following rear-end car accidents in Duluth.