If you get hit in a rear-end accident, it is usually safe to assume that the other driver will be at fault. Although there are exceptions, if you are sitting at a red light or stop sign or stopped in traffic, and someone hits you from behind, it will be that driver’s fault. Since they are at fault, the driver is responsible for your harms and losses, including fixing the damage to your vehicle and compensating you for your medical bills.
Chelsie Garza has more than 18 years of experience representing victims of personal injury and wrongful death. She will evaluate your case for free and help you determine the best way to proceed with your claim. Call 713-893-8808 to schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney in Houston.
Read on to learn more about what to do and not do after a rear end car wreck.
What to Do After the Car Accident
If you are involved in a rear-end collision, contact the police, take photographs of the accident scene and of both vehicles, get witness information (names and contact information), fill out a report if the police do not come to the scene, and call your insurance company. For further information on what to do after the accident, please see What to do if You are in a Car Accident.
Want to see more, What to do After a Rear End Collision
Get the Medical Treatment you Need
If you are hit from behind in a car accident, you may suffer injuries. You may suffer a back or neck injury including whiplash, muscle strain or sprain, or possibly a disc injury (bulging or herniated disc).
Everyone is different in terms of when they feel pain or the degree of pain that they feel. Often, those involved in rear-end collisions may not immediately feel pain. Instead, the pain may start the next day. Regardless of when your pain starts, get the medical help you need. See your family doctor or if you need to, seek emergency medical care. Also, attend your scheduled visits. A pattern of missed appointments may be seen as an indication that you are not hurt or that your treatment is finished.
Don’t wait. Insurance companies may assume that, if you did not seek medical attention immediately, you weren’t hurt.
Do Not Give a Recorded Statement to the Insurer
Insurance companies often ask those involved in the accident to recorded statement describing the accident and your injuries. As a general rule, giving a recorded statement will not help you. For further information regarding giving a recorded statement see Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company.
Settling Your Case
At some point, you will want to talk settlement with the insurance company. You should not settle your claim until your doctors say that you have completed your medical treatment. If you settle before you have fully recovered from your injuries, you may not receive full compensation and may end up paying your medical bills.
Reaching a settlement can take time. The insurance company may take it’s time getting to your claim or may simply be busy with other claims. Many rear end car wreck cases are settled prior to filing a lawsuit. However, litigation may be the only way to obtain full compensation.
If you have been in a rear end collision, contact Chelsie King Garza for a free consultation today.
