Accounting for approximately 29% of all motor vehicle accidents, rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of crashes. More tragically, the Insurance Information Institute notes
that rear-end collisions are responsible for nearly 7% of all traffic-related fatalities.
Rear-end car accidents in New Port Richey, Florida are not uncommon, either. With bumper-to-bumper traffic and more distractions on the road than ever before, our community is a prime target for these crashes.
If you are injured in a rear-end accident, contact us and turn to the skilled legal team at Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers. Our New Port Richey car accident attorneys have recovered $120+ million for our deserving clients and are ready to fight for you, too. Call us today for a free consultation at (727) 815-8442.
How Our New Port Richey Car Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Rear-End Crash
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers has been a staple of the community since 1996. We bring over 50 years of combined experience to the table. We understand how critical early intervention and investigation are to recovering top compensation for our clients.
That’s why when you hire our New Port Richey, FL car accident lawyers, you can trust us to:
- Launch a thorough investigation to determine the factors that contributed to the accident and who is responsible
- Gather evidence from the accident scene to establish fault
- Review all insurance policies that apply to the accident
- Compile evidence to establish the full extent of your damages
- Handle communications on your behalf
- Negotiate for fair compensation on your behalf
We offer a free consultation to discuss the particular details of your case. Contact our personal injury attorneys serving New Port Richey today to get started.
Why Do Rear-End Car Accidents Occur?
A rear-end accident occurs when the front of one vehicle hits the back of the vehicle in front of it.
These accidents often occur because the rear vehicle is following too closely to the lead vehicle. When the driver in front stops or brakes, there may not be much space for the rear driver to brake before colliding with the lead vehicle.
Common Injuries Sustained in Rear-End Car Accidents
While many people think of rear-end car accidents as “minor fender benders,” many accident victims can tell you this is not the case. Many rear-end crashes are fatal.
Many others result in serious injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Facial injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
These injuries can be expensive to treat. It may take months or years for injuries to heal, if they ever heal. A personal injury claim against the at-fault driver may help provide the financial compensation necessary to pay for your accident-related expenses.
Determining Fault in a Rear-End Crash in New Port Richey, Florida
If you suffer a serious injury in a rear-end crash, you will want to be able to prove that the other driver was at fault to recover maximum compensation for your claim.
All drivers owe other motorists a duty of care to safely operate their vehicles. This includes following all traffic laws, including not driving too closely to other motorists to pose a risk to them. Often, the rear driver is at fault for rear-end accidents because they followed too closely or were distracted. By the time they realize there is a hazard, it is too late for the vehicle to stop.
However, there are some instances when the driver in front may be at fault for the crash, such as:
- They slam on their brake for no reason
- They intentionally “brake check” another driver
- They put their vehicle in reverse
- Their brake lights are out
It’s possible that both drivers may be found at fault for such accidents. In such cases, Florida’s modified comparative negligence system applies. According to this rule, an accident victim can still recover compensation for an accident in which they shared fault as long as they were not more responsible for it than the defendant. However, their compensation is reduced by their degree of fault.
What To Do After a Rear-End Accident in New Port Richey
If you are involved in a rear-end accident, here are some immediate steps you can take to protect your claim:
- Report the accident so there is a written account of it
- Ask for the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information
- Request any witnesses to provide their names and contact information
- Take pictures of the accident scene, skid marks, property damage, and any other relevant features that might not last so you can preserve the scene
- Seek prompt medical attention for any injuries you suffer
- Make a claim with your PIP insurance, which can cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault
Finally, reach out to an experienced New Port Richey personal injury lawyer who can fight for fair compensation.
Contact Our New Port Richey Car Accident Attorneys for Help After a Rear-End Collision. We Offer a Free Consultation.
If you were injured in a rear-end car accident in New Port Richey, FL, reach out to the dedicated team at Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers. We can discuss your legal rights and options during a free case review. Call us today to get started on your claim.
