Gainesville Rear-End Collisions Attorneys
It is common to think that a rear-end collision is just a minor traffic accident but unfortunately, that is not always the case. Rear-end collisions can result in severe injuries, including soft tissue injuries that can result in years of pain and immobility. In many cases, the injuries resulting from a rear-end collision are so serious, personal injury protection (PIP) benefits are not enough to fully cover the cost of injury. A Gainesville rear-end collision attorney can help accident victims claim both PIP benefits, as well as damages from the negligent party that caused the crash.
Our Attorney Knows the Common Causes of These Accidents
Many acts of negligence can cause a rear-end collision and it is true that in most cases, the driver that struck the vehicle in front of them is at fault. The most common acts of negligence that result in rear-end collisions are as follows:
- Driving under the influence: Impaired drivers have slowed reaction times, which may result in them not being able to slow down or stop in time before hitting a driver in front of them.
- Distracted driving: When a driver takes their eyes off the road, they may not see that another driver has slowed down or stopped in front of them.
- Speeding: Speeding can cause a rear-end collision because the driver traveling too quickly may not have enough time to slow down or stop before crashing into the driver in front of them.
- Tailgating: Quite possibly the most common cause of rear-end collisions is tailgating. Drivers that follow other vehicles too closely simply do not give themselves the distance necessary to stop in time.
Drivers and passengers of the leading vehicle are typically the ones to sustain the worst injuries after a rear-end collision, leading many people to think the driver in the rear vehicle is always at fault. However, this is not always true.
Our Attorney Can Prove the Leading Driver was At Fault
The vast majority of rear-end collisions are the fault of the driver that struck another from behind. However, there are times when the leading driver is at fault for a rear-end collision, as well.
If the driver of the leading vehicle suddenly stopped, particularly without reason, that may be an act of negligence that can result in them being liable for paying damages. Still, this is a difficult argument to prove because all drivers are expected to leave sufficient distance in front of them to stop safely. On the other hand, failing to have properly working brake lights or driving recklessly, such as cutting another driver off, are all acts of negligence that can result in the leading driver being found liable.
Our Gainesville Rear-End Collisions Attorneys Can Determine Fault After a Crash
Contrary to what many people think, it is not always the driver that hit someone else from behind that is at fault for a rear-end accident. If you have been hurt, our Gainesville rear-end collisions attorney at Meldon Law will review the facts of your case, determine fault, and help you claim the maximum damages you deserve. Call us today at 800-373-8000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation so we can review your case.