If you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a rear-end collision, there are some essential steps you need to take to protect yourself and your interests. By following these simple tips, you can ensure you have the best possible outcome and know what to do after being rear-ended.
Navigate through the article:
Understand the Types of Collisions – Overview of what constitutes a rear-end collision and the different types that can occur
A rear-end collision is a motor vehicle crash in which one vehicle strikes the back of another. Rear-end collisions can have varying levels of severity depending on the speed and angle of impact, as well as the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Commonly, front-end or side impacts will occur simultaneously with rear-end collisions.
The most common type of rear-end collision occurs when one car is stopped at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic and is hit from behind by a second vehicle traveling too close at high speed. This is known as an ‘impact’ collision. Factors such as road surfaces and weather conditions can also increase the severity of an impact collision.
A less common but more severe type is a ‘sideswipe’ collision, where two cars traveling in opposite directions brush past one another while passing through an intersection. This type of crash often involves significant speeds, though the resulting damage may be less than that caused by an impact collision.
Finally, there is a ‘t-bone’ or broadside collision where one car T-bones another from either side, intersecting its path just as it passes through an intersection or other junction. This type of crash has the potential to cause severe injury due to its higher speed and greater force of impact compared with different types of collisions.
A rear-end collision is a motor vehicle crash in which one vehicle strikes the back of another. Rear-end collisions can have varying levels of severity depending on the speed and angle of impact, as well as the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Commonly, front-end or side impacts will occur simultaneously with rear-end collisions.
The most common type of rear-end collision occurs when one car is stopped at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic and is hit from behind by a second vehicle traveling too close at high speed. This is known as an ‘impact’ collision. Factors such as road surfaces and weather conditions can also increase the severity of an impact collision.
A less common but more severe type is a ‘sideswipe’ collision, where two cars traveling in opposite directions brush past one another while passing through an intersection. This type of crash often involves significant speeds, though the resulting damage may be less than that caused by an impact collision.
Finally, there is a ‘t-bone’ or broadside collision where one car T-bones another from either side, intersecting its path just as it passes through an intersection or other junction. This type of crash has the potential to cause severe injury due to its higher speed and greater force of impact compared with different types of collisions.
Determine Liability – Examination of who is usually liable in a rear-end collision and how liability is determined
In most cases, the rear car driver is considered at fault for a rear-end collision. However, there are certain situations when liability can be shared or even placed solely upon the front car. Liability in rear-end collisions is typically determined by investigating factors such as speed and road conditions, as well as any possible negligence on behalf of either driver. A police report may also help determine who was responsible for the crash. In some states, an injured party may have the right to file a civil lawsuit against one or both drivers to recover damages sustained in the accident.
Document the Scene – Steps for safely documenting essential details at the scene, including collecting witness testimonies
Documentation is an integral part of the process regarding a rear-end collision. Here are some steps for documenting the scene of a rear-end collision:
- Take pictures: Photos can help to paint an accurate picture of the scene and provide crucial evidence in piecing together how the accident occurred. Be sure to cover as much of the accident scene as possible, including vehicle damages, skid marks, and any relevant signage.
- Document contact information: Exchange contact information with all parties involved in the crash, including other drivers, witnesses, and bystanders who may have seen something relevant.
- Gather statements: Ask witnesses and drivers to provide statements about what they saw or heard leading up to the crash. If a police officer is called to the scene, ensure you get their report too.
- Note details: Note everything that stands out about the accident scene (for example, speed limits, hazardous road conditions, etc.). Your insurance company or lawyer can use this information as part of any potential legal action against another driver or party related to the crash.
- When a car accident is rear-ended, an accident report should be filed with law enforcement in a timely manner. Law enforcement officers have the expertise and ability to help you deal with these issues. The challenge coins that are now popular among law enforcement agencies and officers everywhere are a good choice, for example: firefighter challenge coins, police challenge coins. They can be printed with a message thanking the officer, the time of day, the incident, etc. It’s a great way to thank and remember the officer. Customize Now
Prepare for Insurance Claims – Guide to understanding insurance coverage and prepping documents such as repair estimates and medical bills
When a rear-end collision occurs, it is crucial to be prepared and take the necessary steps to ensure that you receive adequate compensation from your insurance company. Here are some tips on how to prepare for insurance claims in the event of a rear-end collision:
- Document all relevant information at the scene of the accident, such as contact information, statements, damage, and even skid marks.
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible so they can begin assessing the claim.
- Gather all medical records related to injuries sustained in the crash.
- Evaluate your coverage and make sure you have sufficient limits based on your situation.
File an Accident Report – Instructions on how to file an accident report with local law enforcement
Filing an accident report with local law enforcement is a crucial step to take in the event of a rear-end collision. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Call 911 and explain the situation to the dispatcher, who will then send emergency personnel to the scene.
- Make sure you provide as much information as possible in your call, including any injuries or damages, the location of the accident and whether any vehicles need to be towed away.
- Provide a detailed description of the incident when filing the report with authorities, such as exact location, time of day, weather conditions and other relevant details.
- Take pictures from multiple angles that can help show what happened at the scene and provide evidence for your insurance claim or any potential legal action taken against another party.
- Exchange contact information with all parties involved in the collision, including drivers, passengers and witnesses if any were present at the time of accident.
Contact an Attorney – Benefits of seeking legal assistance from an expert attorney, plus tips on selecting the right lawyer
There are many benefits of seeking legal assistance from an expert attorney in the event of a rear-end collision, such as:
- Expertise and knowledge of the law – An experienced attorney will have a thorough understanding of the law surrounding rear-end collisions, and can offer invaluable guidance on what to do next.
- Collecting evidence – An attorney can help to gather evidence that may be used to support your claim, such as police reports, medical records, and eyewitness statements.
- Negotiating with insurance companies – Insurance companies are often reluctant to pay out claims in full, but an attorney can fight for you and help to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Taking legal action – In some cases, it may be necessary to take legal action against the responsible party in order to obtain damages. An attorney can handle all aspects of this process, from filing the complaint to representing you in court.
