Being hit from behind is a frightening enough experience, but what happens next can be completely overwhelming. You may not be prepared to deal with an insurance company that only cares about its own bottom line, even though you clearly did nothing wrong. An experienced car accident attorney can help.
Even a rear-end wreck that seems clear-cut can lead to a surprisingly difficult legal case. That’s where we come in. Contact the rear-end accident attorneys at Tracey Fox & Walters today for your free consultation.
Texas attorneys who know Texas law
Under Texas law, the driver of the rear vehicle is usually presumed to be at fault for a rear-end accident. It’s common sense: after all, there’s not much you can do to avoid a vehicle behind you. It takes a great deal of evidence to prove that the driver of the front vehicle was responsible – but that doesn’t mean the insurance company won’t try to blame you.
More often, the insurance company will dispute the amount of damages (financial compensation) you are due after an accident. Rear-end accidents often happen at low speeds or while both vehicles are moving in the same direction, which reduces the force of impact. As a result, the insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to argue that your damages are minor and that you should settle for their low-ball offer.
The reality is that even a low-speed crash can cause serious injuries, such as head or neck injuries – and even a seemingly minor injury can have a major impact on your quality of life. If you had any medical expenses, were out of work for any length of time, experienced pain and suffering, or sustained any other losses as a result of your crash, Texas state law says you should be fully compensated for all those losses by the responsible party. That’s our job – and we know how to do it well.
How and where do rear-end accidents happen?
There are many reasons why rear-end collisions occur, but some scenarios are more frequently associated with getting hit from behind than others. Here are some common rear-end collision scenarios in the Lone Star State:
- Rear-ended at an intersection: Accidents often happen when vehicles come to a stop or slow down at intersections. Drivers may misjudge the distance or fail to notice the vehicle in front, resulting in a rear-end collision.
- Rear-ended while stopped: Rear-end accidents can occur when a vehicle is stationary, such as waiting at a traffic light or stop sign. Inattentive drivers may fail to brake in time, causing a collision with the stopped vehicle.
- Rear-ended by a drunk driver: Impaired judgment and slower reaction times make drunk drivers more likely to rear-end other vehicles. These accidents can happen on highways, streets, or even in parking lots.
- Rear-ended by a truck: Rear-end collisions involving trucks, like semis, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and delivery vehicles, can be particularly dangerous due to their size and weight. These accidents often occur on highways or congested roads and can lead to severe injuries or death.
Common rear-end accident injuries
Rear-end collisions can cause serious damage and result in a range of injuries. Here are some common types of car accident injuries:
- Whiplash
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Shoulder injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fracture
- Back and neck pain
Some injuries, like whiplash, may not start causing pain until days or even weeks after a crash. That’s why it’s always a good idea to see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident for a full medical examination. They may be able to identify serious injuries and start treatment before symptoms appear.
Our Texas rear-end accident lawyers fight hard to get what you deserve
We’ve handled numerous rear-end accidents throughout Texas, from crashes in major cities like Houston, Dallas and San Antonio to wrecks on rural roads. We know these cases inside and out, and the insurance companies know how hard we work for our clients. Often, they agree to offer a fair settlement. If not, we’re ready to take them to trial.
Take your rear-end accident claim seriously right from the start. Get medical attention right away – and then contact us as soon as possible. Give us a call or contact us online today for your free consultation with an experienced rear-end accident attorney.
