Rear-End Car Accidents are one of the most deadly types of unintentional accidents in the U.S., killing 33,561 people in 2012 according the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and injuring thousands more. The NHTSA report indicates that there were 1,934 fatal rear-end accidents in the U.S. in 2012.
You may be eligible to recover compensation if you’ve been injured in a rear-end car accident. A lawyer at our firm can help you pursue compensation for your damages.
Causes of Rear-end Car Accidents
Many factors can influence the likelihood of a rear-end collision. Factors that may be related to a rear-end collision include:
- unfavorable weather.
- wet or otherwise slippery conditions of the road.
- dense traffic.
- and, mental or physical impairment of the driver, such as intoxication.
Additionally, a rear-end car accidents may occur because the driver who caused the crash was distracted by things such as music, talking on a cell phone, eating, passengers in the vehicle, and more. In other cases, faulty brakes may also be to blame for a rear-end collision.
Rear-end Car Accidents: Who’s liable?
In New York, the traffic laws assume that a driver who hits another driver is responsible for the collision occurring unless special circumstances are present. As such, if you are involved in a rear-end collision in the state of New York, the driver who hit you will most likely always be liable for the accident. An exception might be if the lead vehicle cut off the other vehicle and suddenly braked, not allowing enough time for the trailing vehicle to react.
In the case that that accident resulted in serious injuries, you may be able to pursue a liability claim for:
- medical costs.
- lost wages.
- and, pain and suffering.
While your first option to recover compensation is your no-fault coverage, if you suffered serious injuries or if your damages exceed policy limits, you may file a liability claim with the at-fault driver.
In these cases, you’ll need to demonstrate the other driver is liable for your injuries. You’ll also need to prove the value of your injuries, or how much money is required to correct the financial burden you’re to bear as a result of the accident.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Proving negligence and liability isn’t always easy. As such, it’s important to consult with an attorney to discuss the merits of your case, what types of compensation you may be eligible to recover, and what documents and information you’ll need to prove the liability of the other driver and recover fair compensation for your damages.
Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. is waiting for your call. For attorneys who are knowledge in rear-end accident law in New York and who will help to guide you through the claims process, don’t hesitate any longer. Call us today at 800-550-0000 to get started on your free case consultation.
