Rear-end car wrecks are the most typical type of collision on the roadways. The severity depends on specifics, such as the speed the driver is traveling when they strike the car in front of them. The sudden jolt can lead to chain-reaction crashes and cause severe whiplash or other bodily injuries and costly property damage.
Even if several cars crash, the last driver could still be at fault if they strike the vehicle they are following, as traffic laws require that motorists follow at a safe distance. When you have been hurt in a collision, speak to a qualified auto wreck attorney from Bence Law Firm, LLC, to handle your rear-end car accident in Columbus case.
Typical Causes of Rear-End Wrecks
Rear-end accidents happen for many reasons in Columbus, and some of the most typical causes include:
- Intoxicated motorists
- Driver distractions, such as texting
- Brake failure or other mechanical failures
- Reduced visibility during night hours or fog
- Speeding and reckless driving, such as tailgating
- Dangerous roadways from poor infrastructure or inclement weather conditions
Injuries may include whiplash and other neck damage, airbag injuries, back damage, and spinal cord trauma. The sudden shock also causes many involved in rear-end crashes to sustain post-traumatic stress disorder and other psychological damage.
Modified Comparative Fault
State personal injury statutes follow the modified comparative fault rule. The court often finds that one or more parties, including the injured motorist, share a portion of liability for the collision. Under the rule, if the party seeking damages is less than 50 percent at fault, they can still collect compensation from the defendant.
Under the laws of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-12-33, the court will subtract fault shared by others from the total award for damages. Columbus rear-end car crashes commonly occur because of the carelessness of more than one driver. An experienced lawyer like David Bence could answer questions about the statutes and help estimate the potential settlement amount.
Statute of Limitations
The personal injury statute of limitations in Georgia is two years. That means the injured party must file a case within two years of the car crash date. Missing the deadline will result in losing eligibility to collect damages from the at-fault party. Damages could include a wide range of costs, such as current and future cost of medical care, lost salary, future earning potential, and benefits, and pain and suffering.
Schedule a Consultation With a Columbus Attorney About Your Rear-End Car Accident Case
Rear-end car accidents in Columbus are typical, and while many are minor, sometimes they can leave you with severe bodily injuries and property damage. When the carelessness of a motorist causes a crash, and you sustain harm, you have the right to take legal action and seek compensation to cover your losses.
A settlement could cover your medical care, lost pay, and pain and suffering. Call today to schedule a consultation with a hard-working lawyer at Bence Law Firm, LLC.