Rear end collisions are one of the most common car accidents. When motorists tailgate or drive distracted, there is an increased risk of a collision, especially with cars directly in front of them. Occupants can suffer terrible injuries, even in parking lots where the vehicles are traveling at low speeds.

Contact Poltielov Law Firm today for assistance with a car insurance claim. Our rear-end collision attorney can offer advice about your legal rights, including a right to financial compensation. No matter how “black and white” you think the case is, we have seen many people with meritorious claims receive denials. Our consultations are free, so don’t hesitate to call.

What Causes Rear-End Collisions?

Drivers should always pay attention when driving and must maintain a safe distance between themselves and other vehicles. Unfortunately, many drivers fall far short of this ideal. In New York, many rear-end collisions are caused by:

  • Texting and driving
  • Distracted driving
  • Driver fatigue
  • Impaired driving
  • Tailgating
  • Driving too fast for conditions
  • Running a red light
  • Brake failure

In some rear-end collisions, the driver in front causes the accident when they cut someone off or brake check for no reason. Our law firm will carefully scrutinize all evidence to understand how the accident unfolded and who is to blame.

Common Rear-End Collision Injuries

Occupants of both vehicles could suffer serious injuries in a collision. However, the occupants of the car up ahead probably have less time to brace for impact. Their car could also be forced off the road or even roll over.

Rear-end collisions often cause:

  • Whiplash
  • Neck fractures
  • Impacted nerves
  • Facial injuries
  • Concussions
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Fractured arms or hands
  • Burns or abrasions
  • Chest injuries
  • Organ damage

Generally, injuries are more serious when the vehicles are speeding. However, even a low speed rear-end collision in a parking lot can lead to painful injuries. You should go to the hospital quickly to have a doctor diagnose any problems.

Determining Fault in a Rear-End Collision

New York motorists should carry no-fault benefits. This insurance will cover medical care regardless of who is to blame for the accident. But if you hope to sue a driver for additional compensation, we need to prove they are at fault for the wreck. This means reviewing evidence, such as:

  • Dashcam or other video which captured the collision
  • Witness statements about what happened
  • Physical evidence, including skid marks on the road or vehicle damage

Often, each driver points the finger at the other. The driver of the car up ahead claims they were struck through no fault of their own. And the driver of the car behind alleges the other driver was brake checking or jumped out in front of them. Picking sides is difficult because insurance adjusters and lawyers were not at the scene.

The good news is that you can seek compensation in New York even if you are partially at fault for the wreck. However, the law states your compensation is reduced by your share of fault for the collision. Someone who is 50% to blame will get half of the financial compensation they might otherwise receive.

How Much is Your Claim Worth?

We have seen many people struggle with significant injuries following a rear-end collision. They might need to miss work for months or years as they rehab severe whiplash or wait for bones to heal. Others are confined to a hospital with a serious traumatic brain injury.

We have experience properly valuing car accident cases. Insurance adjusters will often allege your injuries aren’t worth much, and they might offer a small settlement.

We fight to get the most compensation for:

  • Car repairs
  • Lost income
  • Emergency medical treatment
  • Ongoing physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Prescription medication
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress

Our firm understands the art of negotiation quite well. We never grab at the first offer made because we know we can do better. We also have full command of the facts so that we can convince the other side to see the accident our way.  

Many of our clients can step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the defendant for compensation. Let us handle all the litigation while you recover from your injuries.

Work with an Experienced Rear-End Collision Attorney

Poltielov Law Firm has represented car accident victims for years. During this stressful time, no one should try to negotiate a settlement on their own. Large insurance companies work night and day to find ways to deny claims, and the odds are stacked against you. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.