Rear-end collisions can result in significant injuries and property damage. Knowing what steps to take after a rear-end collision is important to protect yourself and your legal rights. This FAQ page will answer some common questions about what to do after a rear-end collision.
What Steps Should You Take Immediately Following a Rear-End Collision in SC
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, you should first check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if no one appears injured, exchanging information with the other driver(s) involved is still important.
Be sure to get the driver’s name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number.
Contact the Police After a Rear-End Collision
Yes, it’s always a good idea to contact the police after a car accident, including rear-end collisions. A police report can provide important documentation of the accident, including the location, time, and weather conditions. The police report may also include statements from witnesses and a diagram of the accident scene.
Gather Information After a Rear-End Collision
After a rear-end collision, you should gather as much information as possible about the accident. This includes:
- The other driver’s name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number
- The make, model, and color of the other driver’s vehicle
- The location of the accident and the time it occurred
- The weather and road conditions at the time of the accident
- A description of the damage to both vehicles
Take Pictures at the Scene of the Incident
Yes, taking pictures of the accident scene can be very helpful. Be sure to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and the surrounding area.
Take pictures from different angles and distances, and try to capture the full extent of the damage. You should also take pictures of any injuries you sustained.
Statements to the Insurance Carriers
After a rear-end collision, you must be careful about what you say to the other driver and their insurance company. Stick to the facts and be honest, but don’t speculate about what happened or who is to blame.
Contact a Rear-End Collision Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, contacting a personal injury lawyer is a good idea. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and can assist you in pursuing a compensation claim. Additionally, a lawyer can communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Rear-End Collision?
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and medication
- Lost wages or income
- Property damage, including damage to your vehicle and personal property
- Pain and suffering, including physical and emotional distress, caused by the accident
What if the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?
If the insurance company denies your claim, you may need to pursue legal action to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage. A personal injury lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court to protect your legal rights.
Can I Still Pursue a Claim if the Other Driver Fled the Scene of the Accident?
If the other driver fled the accident scene, pursuing a claim could be more difficult. However, if you have uninsured motorist coverage on your own insurance policy, your insurance company may be able to cover your damages. Additionally, if the police can identify the other driver, you may be able to pursue a claim against them personally.
What if the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Offers Me a Settlement?
If the other driver’s insurance company offers you a settlement, it’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting the offer. Insurance companies often offer low settlement amounts to minimize their own costs, and you may be entitled to more compensation than what is being offered.
Lost Wages After a Rear-End Collision
If you cannot work after a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to recover lost wages or income as part of your personal injury claim. This can include wages you lost while recovering from your injuries and future wages you may lose if your injuries prevent you from working in the future.
Handling a Vehicle Totaled After a Rear-End Incident
If your vehicle is totaled in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to recover the value of your vehicle as part of your personal injury claim. This can include the fair market value of your vehicle and any additional costs associated with replacing your vehicle.
Timeframe for a Resolution to the Claim
The time it takes to resolve a personal injury case depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether or not the other driver disputes liability. Sometimes, a personal injury case can be resolved within a few months. In others, reaching a settlement or verdict may take several years.
Commercial Vehicle Rear-End Collisions
If the other driver was driving a commercial vehicle during the rear-end collision, this could complicate your personal injury claim. Commercial vehicle accidents are subject to a different set of regulations and may involve multiple parties, including the driver, the company that owns the vehicle, and the company that employs the driver. A personal injury lawyer with experience in commercial vehicle accidents can help you navigate these complexities and pursue a compensation claim.
Can I Still Pursue a Personal Injury Claim if the Other Driver Received a Traffic Citation?
If the other driver received a traffic citation for the rear-end collision, this could be useful evidence in your personal injury claim. However, receiving a citation does not automatically mean that the other driver is liable for your injuries.
A personal injury lawyer can help you evaluate the evidence and determine whether you have a strong compensation claim. Contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm today for more help.
