Rear-end collisions are one of the most common reasons for car accidents in the US, and they often occur on congested highways in Aurora and throughout Colorado. Although many people think these accidents are always straightforward, liability and compensation can be tricky. If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision, working with experienced Aurora car accident lawyers can help uncover your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Most of the time, the driver who hits the front vehicle is automatically presumed at fault. Drivers have a duty to drive cautiously and maintain a reasonable following distance, be alert, and observe shifting traffic patterns. When they fail, they become responsible for the resulting damages and injuries. But exceptions exist in certain situations, and fault may be apportioned in multiple parties. That’s why it is important to hire an Aurora personal injury lawyer who knows how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a solid claim.
Who Is Responsible in a Rear-End Accident?
While the rear driver is generally held accountable, fault is not always absolute. These are some of the circumstances that would render liability uncertain:
Sudden Stops: If the front driver had been making sudden stops without a reason, they can be held partly responsible.
Non-Functional Brake Lights: Drivers who fail to maintain their brake lights in working order can cause everyone else to react late.
Chain-Reaction Collisions: Multi-car pileups normally require a more detailed analysis to determine who was responsible for the accident and how liability is apportioned.
Reckless Driving: Where both motorists were driving in a careless manner.
In Colorado, comparative fault is the law by which fault can be apportioned among drivers. If you are partially at fault, your award can be cut by a percentage of fault. For example, if you recover $100,000 and are found 20% at fault, you get $80,000.
Common Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end crashes have the potential to cause serious injuries, even in low-speed crashes. Some of the most prevalent are:
Whiplash and neck injury from the sudden back-and-forth motion of the head.
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from the force of impact.
Spinal cord injuries leading to chronic pain, limited mobility, or paralysis.
Soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, and torn ligaments.
Fractured bones or breaks caused by seat belts, airbags, or the actual collision.
The majority of the victims are not aware that their injuries are serious. Symptoms do not appear for hours or days, and it is therefore extremely important that medical attention be sought as early as possible.
What Type of Compensation Can You Receive?
The compensation in the form of damages can be received by the victims of rear-end accidents, depending on the severity of the accident and how it affected their lives. This may be:
Medical expenses – charges by the hospital, surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and medication.
Loss of income and impairment of earning capacity if the accident renders you incapable of working presently or in the future.
Property damage – repair or replacement of the vehicle.
Pain and suffering for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Future medical care for ongoing treatment or permanent disability.
An attorney can calculate the full value of your claim, taking into account both current and future costs. Insurance companies often try to downplay injuries or label them as “minor” to reduce payouts, but legal representation ensures that your damages are accurately assessed.
Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end crash, here are some steps to protect your rights:
Call 911 and report the accident, and also ask for medical assistance.
Document the scene with the vehicles, roadway conditions, and any obvious injuries.
Write down witnesses’ information such as names, phone numbers, and statements.
Seek immediate medical attention even if you feel fine at first.
Avoid admitting fault in making statements to the opposing party or to the insurance company.
Obtain a car accident attorney prior to making recorded statements to insurers.
Why You Need Legal Representation
Rear-end accidents appear simple at first glance, but the insurance companies have motives to keep payments minimal. They will tell you that your injuries are fabricated, your pre-accident conditions caused them, or partially your fault.
Having experienced auto accident lawyers on your side ensures you have a professional who is familiar with Colorado law, comfortable handling insurance companies, and will fight aggressively to recover the compensation you’re entitled to. From gathering evidence in the first place to standing up for you in court if necessary, having the expertise of an attorney can make the difference between a small settlement and full financial recovery.
No Comment