Rear-end collisions are common and occur almost every day in Georgia. Although some are unavoidable, a majority of rear-end accidents can be prevented through practicing safe driving. In fact, according to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) report, 40% of all reported accidents are rear-ended collisions. Other forms of vehicle accidents such as rollover, sideswipe, head-on collision, and others make up the remaining 60%.
Many people tend to ignore the seriousness of a rear-end collision; largely because a majority of the accidents happen at low speeds. Based on a report by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), rear-end car accidents are the third leading cause of fatalities and caused 9% of all car-related accidents back in 2015. Even at low speeds, rear accidents could cause long term injuries such as spinal cord injuries, fractures, back injuries, brain injuries, and others.
This is the primary reason car rear-end accident victims in Atlanta should hold negligent drivers accountable for their negligence. Therefore, if you are a victim of a rear-end accident in Atlanta, Georgia; you need to speak to a car accident lawyer immediately; because you may be owed monetary compensation.
At Ted Greve & Associates, we are dedicated to providing personalized and professional service. Our highly trained, skilled, and experienced Atlanta rear-end car accident lawyers will assist in the case; giving you time to recover. We work together with other experts to get you fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact us today and speak with a professional.
What Are the Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Georgia?
Every motorist in Georgia is required to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, to allow then space to stop or slow down if required to avoid rear accidents. A driver is found to be negligent if they fail to do this. What does this mean? Well, any driver who causes a rear-end accident is presumed to be negligent. Common causes of rear-end accidents include:
Tailgating
Whenever a driver is tailgating a vehicle they are clearly violating the rule to keep a safe distance from the car ahead. This is a careless action, and it is a form of aggressive driving.
Excessive Speeding
Whenever a driver is speeding, their reaction to slow down or stop quickly is limited. As such, when traffic speed chances, their chances of getting into a rear-end accident becomes high.
Distracted Driving
Drivers are advised to avoid distractions and keep their minds and eyes on the road at all times. However, many drivers tend to ignore this rule by doing other things such as eating, texting, phone call, changing the stereo, working the GPS (navigation system), and others.
Fatigue
Fatigue is often an overlooked issue but one which possess danger on the road. When a person is tired, they tend to lose focus and attention quickly.
Drunk Driving
Driving while under the influence of a substance is the leading cause of accidents in the US, followed by distracted driving, and excessive speeding. When a driver is driving while under the influence, their reaction time and driving skills are impaired.
Mechanical Problems
The truth is that some rear-end accidents are not a result of a driver’s fault, but simply mechanical or a faulty part. The accident may be a result of a failed braking system. Other times could be as a result of a broken or fail tail or brake light. Also, it could be as a result of an improperly maintained vehicle.
Weather and Road Conditions
Some rear-end accidents are a result of poor weather conditions such as heavy fog, rain, and even ice.
What Are Common Injuries Associated with Rear-End Accidents?
Personal injuries from accidents are not only unexpected but devastating to the victim physically, mentally, emotionally, and even financially. A victim can find calmness by obtaining monetary compensation to cover injuries and damages by filing an insurance claim. However, the truth is that filing for an insurance claim is not always straightforward. Accountability dispute, compensation amount dispute, and other factors may make this process tiresome, especially without the help of a personal injury lawyer.
To avoid problems or disputes arising, it is wise for an injured accident victim to seek immediate medical attention after the accident, document everything, and speak to a professional lawyer. Often after an accident, adrenaline overrides a victim’s pain symptoms, which makes them think they are fine – only later to realize they have incurred serious injuries. Remember, some injuries from a rear-end accident may not appear immediately and may be hard to treat weeks after the accident.
The most common injuries in rear-end accidents include:
- Head trauma
- Whiplash
- Broken ribs
- Wrist and arm injuries
- Facial disfigurement or scarring
- Fractures
- Paralysis
NOTE: Rear-end accidents can be deadly to bikers (both bicycles and motorcycles). It is important to note that when a car hits the back of a bike, the rider is not only going to be jolted forward, but thrown or flipped off the bike. Since bikers have little protection, they often, end up sustaining serious damages or injuries. Even a ‘Minor’ accident can be devastating to a biker.
What is the Statute of Limitations in Atlanta, Georgia?
After both the accident victim and the at-fault driver notify their respective insurance companies of the accident; both companies will begin their investigations. Both insurance companies will request a recorded statement. However, it is wise to avoid giving recorded statements without a lawyer present. If currently, you do not have one, note that you are not in any obligation to provide one to the at-fault or third party insurance provider. Politely decline or request that all the questions should be directed to the Ted Greve & Associate attorney.
According to both state and city laws, a rear-end accident victim has only 2 years to file for a compensation claim. This is a law under OCGA – 9-3-33, and the time begins from the date of the accident. Remember, Atlanta, Georgia laws are strict, and therefore, you cannot file for compensation after 2 years have expired. In fact, your claim will lead to dismissal.
The court will not take into account how minor or severe your injuries are, or how expensive your treatment is; the moment you miss the deadline; you forfeit the claim. If the accident led to a loss of a loved one or wrongful death, then you have four years to file a compensation lawsuit.
Why Do You Need A Lawyer?
Hiring an experienced, skilled, and professional lawyer comes with a lot of benefits. Remember, the law is broad and covers all and different areas. Therefore, handling a personal injury claim without knowing the law is like trying to hunt while blinded. The rear-end accident lawyers at Ted Greve & Associates are professionals focused on helping car accident victims fight for their rights.
Just like how mechanics are experts when it comes to the mechanical field; Accident attorneys are experts in the field of law, and they will help improve your odds. After an accident, the victim passes through a tough time trying to recover, staying financially stable, and adjusting to the new normal. Although monetary compensation cannot make up for everything but make things a bit better.
With the guidance of an experienced lawyer, you will enjoy the following benefits:
- Provide Legal Advice
- Case Investigation and collecting evidence
- Case preparation and filing a litigation
- Settlement negotiation
- Trial representation
- Claim worth and calculations
Our lawyers will ensure you get quick compensation during this tough time; allowing you to focus on recovering. We will first try to negotiate with the insurance company, for fair compensation. If the process is handled correctly, it will not take long for all parties to agree. Remember, a majority of car accident claims are settled out of court. This is because negotiations are often quick and direct. If negotiations fail, other legal actions may be taken.
How Much Will it Cost You to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
Cost is everything, and it plays a role in determining the goods and services to get. Well, the good news is that hiring a rear-end accident lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia will not involve you taking money out of your pocket. That is because we work on a contingency fee basis. What does a contingency fee mean? Well, it simply means that the other part will pay for the lawyer services and legal fees; by taking a specific or agreed percentage of the compensated amount.
Therefore, rather than paying hourly fees, our lawyers will take on your case without asking you for anything until compensation is paid. With a contingency fee, the lawyer will not get paid until they recover monetary compensation for you, through the case. Therefore, if the lawyer loses the compensation case, he/she will not be paid.
It is important to note that the contingency fee percentage differs from case to case. Often, it is determined by case type, requirements, and status. Get in touch with a lawyer today to know your case worth and legal options.
Get a Free Consultation with Our Atlanta Rear-End Car Accident Lawyers
Our personal injury lawyers offer support, legal advice, and representation to all our clients. We are committed to providing personalized and professional service to all. We fully understand every case is different. For this reason, speak to us today to learn your legal options.
At Ted Greve & Associates, we work with other experts like accident reconstruction professionals, to collect necessary data to support your claims. Our team also includes podiatric physicians, chiropractic physicians, licensed insurance adjusters, and experienced paralegals; which enhances the professionalism of our firm. Call us today at (800) 693-7833 to learn more.
