Do I Have a Case If I Was Rear-Ended While Stopped?
Learn your legal options from Attorney John S. Williams
One of the most common types of car accidents are rear-ended accidents. A car may be traveling too close to you on the highway and slam into you when they're not paying attention and you come to a stop in traffic. Or you may have been rear-ended at a stop sign or a red light. Either way, you’d think your case would be open and shut, but it’s not always that easy. A rear-end accident lawyer can help.
At The Law Offices of John S. Williams, we’ll uncover the truth of your accident and fight for full compensation. Attorney John S. Williams is dedicated to helping people in New Orleans recover from their rear-end accidents. He knows that medical bills can add up fast. That’s why he fights hard for every client. You can count on him to advocate for your best interests.
Common injuries in rear-end crashes
Rear-end accidents can happen anywhere, and they can result in significant damage. Some common injuries you may suffer after being hit from behind include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back injuries
- Internal injuries
- Fractures (broken bones)
Because rear-end crashes often happen at low speeds, many people may think they’re not seriously injured. But even a low-impact crash can cause significant damage. That’s why you should always get checked out by a doctor after a rear-end accident, even if you feel fine.
Who is at fault for a rear-end wreck?
In most cases, the driver who rear-ended you will be found at fault for your accident. Drivers should keep a safe distance from the car in front of them in case they brake suddenly. If you were completely stopped and rear-ended, the other driver will almost always be deemed at fault.
However, there are still arguments the insurance company can make in some circumstances – for example, if you stopped short or if your brake lights weren’t working. Again, don’t just assume that the rear driver will be found at fault. Get a lawyer on your side.
How much is an average settlement?
Many factors are considered when calculating your settlement, so there is no true average payout. The factors that will determine the compensation awarded to you include:
- The severity of your injuries
- The damage to your property
- If you were unable to work after the accident
- Your medical bills
- The amount of available insurance
Expenses after an accident add up fast. You know you should be fully compensated and so does attorney John S. Williams. In general, you can seek compensation for all current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our legal team will stand up for your rights and fight for the compensation you need and deserve.
Will my insurance rates go up if I was rear-ended?
In most cases, no. In Louisiana, the insurance company can’t raise your premium for a not-at-fault accident, and if you were rear-ended, you are almost certainly not at fault. It’s also against the law in Louisiana for the insurance company to raise your rates for filing an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim.
Why you should hire a New Orleans lawyer after your rear-end accident
If you were rear-ended accident, you need a dedicated car accident attorney to fight for your rights. The legal team at The Law Offices of John S. Williams has experience dealing with cases just like yours. We will investigate your accident to learn the facts and find evidence in support of your case.
Whether you were rear-ended by a drunk driver or at an intersection, we can help you file a lawsuit and fight for the best possible outcome.
No matter what type of injury you suffered, you deserve justice. To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today and schedule a free consultation.