In the U.S. alone, an average of six million motor vehicle collisions occur yearly, injuring about three million people. Nearly three in four of these incidents also cause property damage.
Many of those collisions are rear-enders, wherein one vehicle crashes into the back of another.
If you’re a victim of a rear-end motor vehicle accident, you may wonder what your legal rights are. Who’s even at fault, and what steps must you take for your compensation pursuit?
We’ve answered those questions in this guide, so read on.
Contents
Who’s at Fault in a Rear-End Motor Vehicle Accident?
In most rear-end motor vehicle crashes, the driver in the rear is usually at fault and legally liable. They typically have to pay for the damages sustained by the leading car (the vehicle in front).
However, there are exceptions to the rule, such as if the lead driver’s negligence resulted in the crash. Here are some examples of when this may be the case:
- The lead driver suddenly reversed
- The lead vehicle’s brakes or brake lights failed right before the crash
- The lead driver just hit the brakes for no good reason
- The lead car had a mechanical failure, but its driver didn’t move it to the side of the road
In some cases, the lead and rear drivers may be negligent. Depending on the state where the crash happened, the involved drivers may share fault.
Your Rights as a Victim
Let’s say you’re the lead driver, and you’re sure you bear no fault for the rear-end crash. In this case, your victim rights include seeking compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses for the injuries you sustained
- Lost wages, such as if you can’t work because of injuries caused by the accident
- Property damage, including the repair or replacement of your rear-ended vehicle
The above are examples of economic damages. However, you may also pursue compensation for non-economic damages, such as physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional distress.
How to Pursue Compensation
One of your best post-car accident options is to seek legal protection and advice from a car crash attorney. You don’t have to worry about paying them on the spot; reputable lawyers provide a free case evaluation, according to Dickstein Law Firm.
A highly experienced car accident lawyer will also investigate your crash. Doing so allows them to determine all types of compensation you deserve. Your attorney may even take your case to court, depending on the circumstances.
So, with a car crash attorney, you won’t have to deal with insurance companies or file a case yourself. Your lawyer will do the bulk of the legwork for you. As a result, you’ll have more time to rest and recover from your injuries.
Protect Your Rights as a Victim
As a rear-end motor vehicle accident victim, it’s your every right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. However, you should still prioritize your health and recovery. So, hire a car crash attorney to represent you, fight for your rights, and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
For more informative law-related articles like this, browse our latest posts.
