Rear-end collisions are the most common type of accident on U.S. roads. While many of these are minor crashes, a rear-end accident can also result in severe injuries and financial losses. Sadly, many people injured in Madison rear-enders struggle to recover compensation from insurance companies more focused on their profit margins than the well-being of accident victims. If you suffered injuries in a rear-end car accident in Wisconsin, getting strong legal representation may be what it takes to force the insurance company to pay.
The Madison, WI car accident attorneys at LawtonCates have represented people like you since 1958. We’ll manage all the legal work in your case to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
Our legal team knows that every car accident claim is unique. Unlike some other law firms, we don’t rush cases just to move on to the next client. You can count on us to dedicate our time and attention to developing a customized strategy aimed at recovering maximum compensation for you. Our top-tier attorneys have prevailed in complex cases in state and federal courts, and we’ll never shy away from battling for you. Call or contact us now for a free consultation with a rear-end accident attorney in Madison.
What Are Rear-End Accidents?
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle strikes another from behind. The force of a rear-end auto accident can cause severe injuries to drivers or passengers in either vehicle, particularly if the rear car is moving at high speed.
The frequency of rear-end collisions doesn’t diminish their impact on those involved. Unfortunately, many insurance companies downplay the injuries sustained in rear-end crashes or try to shift the blame onto the accident victim. If the insurer succeeds, victims must cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage out of pocket. That’s where a rear-end car accident attorney can step in. A lawyer levels the playing field to give people a fair shot at recovering compensation.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end car accidents in Madison usually involve some form of negligence by a driver or other party, which means someone failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the collision. Common causes of rear-end collisions include:
- Distracted driving – Rear drivers often cause collisions when texting, adjusting the radio, or focusing on something other than the road.
- Following too closely – Tailgating reduces reaction times, making it harder for drivers to stop before hitting the car ahead.
- Speeding – Excessive speed decreases a driver’s ability to stop quickly. For instance, a speeding driver approaching a red light might rear-end a vehicle already stopped.
Injuries Frequently Caused by Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end car accidents in Madison can cause severe or even potentially life-threatening injuries, such as:
- Whiplash – Whiplash is a soft-tissue injury that occurs when the neck jerks back and forth due to the sudden impact of a rear-end collision. It can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Back injuries – The force of the crash can compress spinal discs or strain muscles in the back, leading to conditions like herniated discs or nerve damage.
- Head injuries – A driver or passenger may hit their head on the steering wheel, dashboard, or headrest, resulting in concussions or other traumatic brain injuries.
- Chest injuries – The impact of a rear-end collision can cause bruising or fractures from seatbelts tightening or drivers and passengers hitting the steering wheel or dashboard.
- Facial Injuries – Broken glass or deployed airbags may cause cuts, bruises, or facial fractures.
- Wrist and hand injuries – Drivers often brace for impact by gripping the wheel, which can lead to sprains, fractures, or dislocations.
- Knee and leg injuries – Drivers’ or passengers’ knees might strike the dashboard during a rear-end crash, causing bruising, fractures, or ligament damage. Passengers in the back seat can also sustain similar injuries.
Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision
Once you’ve reported the collision to the police and sought medical treatment, take these steps after a rear-end car accident to protect your rights:
- Save any evidence you have from the accident scene. Photos of the crash and eyewitness contact information can be essential evidence in your case.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions. Attend all follow-up medical appointments and stick to the prescribed treatment plan.
- Don’t discuss your case with anyone other than a car accident attorney. In particular, don’t post about the crash on social media. Insurers may find your posts and use them against you.
- Don’t talk to the insurance company without seeking legal advice. Giving a recorded statement or signing medical releases without talking to a lawyer could hurt your case.
- Contact an experienced rear-end accident attorney in Madison. Find a car accident lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours.
Determining Liability in Rear-End Accidents
The rear driver is usually liable for a rear-end car accident in most cases. That’s because they are responsible for maintaining a safe distance between their car and the vehicles in front of them. However, the driver in front or other parties are sometimes liable for rear-end collisions. For example, if the driver in front brakes suddenly for no reason, they might be liable for a crash. Similarly, an automaker or parts manufacturer might share the blame for a rear-end crash if defective brakes or other components contributed to the crash. A car accident attorney from LawtonCates can investigate the crash to identify all liable parties and help you hold them accountable.
Compensation Available for Rear-End Accident Victims
Depending on your injuries, medical bills, and other factors, compensation for rear-end collisions in Madison may include money for:
- Current and expected medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
How a Madison Rear-End Accidents Attorney Can Assist You
The experienced attorneys at LawtonCates are committed to providing comprehensive and supportive legal assistance for your car accident claim. We will investigate the crash to identify the liable parties, document your injuries, file your personal injury claim(s), and negotiate a fair settlement. If the insurance companies don’t offer a reasonable settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if we believe it’s the right strategy for a fairer result.
Don’t wait to talk to our rear-end accident attorneys in Madison about your case. Call or contact LawtonCates today for a free consultation.