Rear-end car accidents in Boca Raton happen frequently, occurring when a driver fails to pay attention and strikes the vehicle in front. Even if you do not feel pain immediately after the crash, rear-end impacts often cause neck and back injuries, concussions, and other serious conditions.
State law holds the rear driver responsible for the collision, especially when the victim was stopped at a traffic signal. However, the other driver may try to prove that the victim contributed to the accident. If you were injured in a rear-end crash, you need help from a knowledgeable car accident attorney.
Proving fault in a rear-end collision should be simple in many cases. If the victim stopped at a traffic signal, the driver who struck their vehicle bears liability for the accident. Boca Raton has a rebuttable presumption that the defendant in rear-end auto accidents caused the crash. However, the defendant can present evidence to challenge that presumption and argue that they were not responsible.
If the driver did not cause the accident, they can present several reasons to show they were not at fault. In some cases, a third driver may strike their vehicle, pushing it into the victim’s car—this often happens at traffic signals when all vehicles are stopped and a third driver acts recklessly. In other situations, the lead driver’s brake or turn signals may malfunction. If the lead driver slows down or turns without visible signals, they may share responsibility for the crash. A sudden, unsafe lane change by the lead driver can also contribute to the accident, especially if the defendant cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.
No matter which side of the accident a victim is on, it is essential to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. If another driver struck you from behind or you hit someone because you could not see their brake lights, you need legal advice to support your insurance claim.
Seek medical treatment after an accident. A doctor’s report can support your insurance claim, and your insurer may request one.
Call 911. In rear-end vehicle accidents in Boca Raton, state law requires you to report any accident with injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage to law enforcement immediately. If no one suffers serious injuries, you must still file a report within 10 days.
Document the scene. If it is safe, take photos of the accident site. Record details about the location, weather, and surroundings. Try to collect contact information from any witnesses.
Contact an attorney. Even if you do not plan to file a lawsuit, speak with a lawyer. They can advise you on your case and help you navigate your next steps.
Speak with an attorney immediately if the other driver’s insurance company offers you a settlement. It will likely be a lowball offer that does not cover all your losses. You have the right to receive independent legal advice before accepting any settlement offer.
Determining the value of your claim can be difficult without legal help. You may request economic damages for your losses due to the crash, such as lost wages and medical expenses, as well as non-economic damages, including pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.
Victims of rear-end car accidents in Boca Raton need legal help from personal injury attorneys who have handled other cases like yours. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we bring extensive experience in rear-end auto accidents. We understand state laws on proving fault and work hard to secure the compensation you deserve.
We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, so you will not pay anything until we settle or win your case. We offer a free initial consultation and provide a clear legal opinion on your claim and next steps, so call us today to schedule an appointment and discuss your rear-end car accident.
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