Drivers are rear-ended every day in Georgia, and these accidents can occur in a variety of driving scenarios, from stop-and-go rush hour traffic to high-speed interstate driving. According to an NHTSA report, rear-end collisions account for roughly 29% of car crashes nationwide. Despite how common they are, there are many misconceptions and uncertainties regarding rear-end collisions, including whether or not to hire a lawyer.
Deciding to work with an attorney for a rear-end collision case is an important decision. Georgia does not require injured drivers to have legal representation in car accident cases, but the right lawyer will be your advocate throughout the claims and litigation process, providing invaluable support and guidance.
Let’s explore some of the other common questions you may have after being rear-ended.
Who’s At Fault in a Rear-End Collision?
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle strikes the back of another vehicle. What causes most rear end collisions? Typically happening in traffic or at stoplights, these accidents often result from tailgating, sudden stops, speeding, or distracted driving.
Georgia state law requires drivers to leave a safe distance between their vehicle and other vehicles. The presumption is that the rear driver holds most of this responsibility since it is generally required of them to maintain enough space in front of them. While the driver who runs into the back of another vehicle is often held liable for accident damages, this is not always the case.
In some scenarios, the driver in front is at fault for a rear-end collision. Some examples include:
- Swerving in front of or cutting off the rear driver
- Reversing into the rear driver
- Driving with broken brake lights
- Failing to notice hazards and slamming on the brakes
- Brake checking or sudden deceleration
- Stopping suddenly for an accident directly in front of their vehicle
Liability is decided on a case-by-case basis because the details of each accident are unique.
What to do After a Rear-End Car Accident
Being proactive is helpful after any crash, but it’s difficult to take the necessary steps when the trauma of the collision is still at the front of your mind. See below for guidance on a few steps you may need to take after being rear-ended.
Steps to Take Immediately Following an Accident
The first and most important step after an accident is to get medical attention. Then, if it is safe to do so, you may want to do the following:
- Exchange information with the other driver or drivers involved
- Take pictures of the scene, including the vehicles and surrounding area
- Speak to witnesses and ask for their contact information
- Contact your insurance company
- If the police don’t come to the scene, ask the at-fault driver to take a video explaining what happened, and admitting fault for causing the wreck. If they won’t do this, then insist that you wait for the police to come to the scene.
After being rear-ended, you should get a lawyer or, at the very least, consider meeting with a few car accident attorneys to discuss your options. Most car accident attorneys offer complimentary consultations to determine if you have a viable case.
Wondering if you should get a lawyer for a rear-end car accident is understandable, especially when your injuries are minor. It is true that severe injuries take more time and resources to recover from. However, even minor injuries may require physical, emotional, and financial recovery.
Compassionate Guidance and Representation
At Flanagan Law, our team of rear-end accident lawyers has a stellar track record and a reputation for always putting our clients’ needs first. Are you still wondering if you should get a lawyer for a rear-end car accident? Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can help. From filing a claim to delivering a fair settlement, we help you navigate each step of rear-end collision cases.
