What to Do After Getting Rear-Ended

Experiencing a rear-end collision can be a terrifying and worrying experience, especially when it results in injuries that affect your physical mobility. Whether it’s a minor bump in traffic or a more significant impact on an open road, knowing what to do after being rear-ended is essential to protect your safety, your rights, and your resources. 

To help you in such a situation, this article tells you everything you need to know to properly deal with a rear-end accident, avoiding injustices that may prevent you from receiving the benefits you deserve by law. Your safety and well-being are the most important, and knowing what to do can make a difference in the effective management of such an incident.

If you need legal advice, at Nonna Shikh Law you will find a specialized team in accidents, ready to help you seek justice in your case and obtain each of the benefits you deserve to recover without problems. 

Call now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation to receive an evaluation of your case by a top-notch team of lawyers with over 25 years of experience in rear-end accident cases.

 

Also read: Errors to avoid in auto accidents to obtain compensation

 

What are rear-end accidents?

Rear-end accidents are a common type of vehicle collision in which a vehicle collides with the rear end of another vehicle in front of it in the same direction of movement. 

These accidents can vary in severity, from minor bumps at low speeds to more serious collisions at higher speeds. Additionally, rear-end accidents can occur in various situations, such as congested traffic, traffic lights, highways, and low visibility conditions.

In most cases, the vehicle that rear-ends another is considered responsible for the accident since drivers are expected to maintain a safe distance between vehicles and be prepared to stop if the vehicle ahead suddenly reduces its speed. 

However, there are circumstances in which the driver of the rear-ended vehicle may share some responsibility, such as when they make a sudden and unexpected stop without a valid reason.

What to do after suffering a rear-end accident in New York?

If you suffer a rear-end accident in the state of New York, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure that you are protecting your safety, complying with the law, and handling the consequences of the accident properly. 

Here’s what you should do after suffering a rear-end accident in New York:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel immediate injuries, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries may appear later, and having a medical record can be helpful in case of injury claims.
• Evaluate Safety: The first thing is to check if you and others involved in the accident are injured. If necessary, call emergency services (911) for medical assistance.
• Call the Police: In New York, it is mandatory to report traffic accidents to the police if there is property damage or injuries. Call 911 or the local emergency number to report the accident.
• Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other driver. Make sure to get their name, address, phone number, insurance information, and vehicle details (make, model, license plate). If there are witnesses, get their names and contact numbers.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, accident location, traffic signals, and any other relevant evidence. This can be useful for your insurance claim and in case of legal disputes.
• Get a Police Report: If the police arrive at the scene, request an official accident report. This document may be necessary for your insurance company and future legal proceedings.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide all details and information collected. Follow your insurer’s instructions for filing a claim.

Additionally, remember that it is important to have the legal support of a good team of accident lawyers who know your rights and who allow you to follow the proper legal path to obtain the benefits that you deserve as a victim.

What benefits can a victim of a rear-end accident receive?

Victims of rear-end accidents may be entitled to various types of benefits depending on the severity of the accident, the injuries suffered, and specific circumstances. Here are five types of benefits that a victim of a rear-end accident could receive:

• Compensation for Injuries: If the victim suffered injuries as a result of the accident, they may be entitled to receive compensation for medical expenses, treatments, therapies, and long-term care. This compensation may also cover pain and suffering caused by injuries.
• Vehicle Repairs and Replacement: If the victim’s vehicle was damaged in the accident, they may receive benefits to repair or replace the vehicle depending on their insurance policy coverage and the other driver’s liability.
• Lost Wages: If injuries resulting from the accident prevent the victim from working temporarily or permanently, they may receive compensation for lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
• Additional Expenses: In addition to direct medical expenses, victims may receive compensation for additional expenses related to the accident such as transportation costs, accommodation during rehabilitation, and other expenses related to recovery.
• Property Damage Compensation: Apart from personal injuries, victims may receive compensation for property damage such as personal items damaged in the vehicle during the accident.

It is important to note that specific benefits that a victim may receive may vary depending on the state where the accident occurred, local laws, insurance coverage, and other factors. It is always advisable to consult with a personal injury or traffic accident lawyer to fully understand the benefits that one may be entitled to and receive specific guidance on how to proceed.

Contact Accident Lawyers Near You

Facing a rear-end accident can be a challenging experience, but being prepared and knowing how to act can make a difference in your ability to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve.

Remember that if you find yourself in the situation of being a victim of a rear-end accident in the state of New York, you are not alone. The team of expert traffic accident lawyers at Nonna Shikh Law is here to provide you with the legal guidance you need.

Call now at 718-295-4000 or schedule a consultation. We are committed to fighting for your rights and offering you the necessary support during this process. Your safety and well-being are our number one priority.

 

You may also be interested in: A List of Car Accidents by State: Where It’s Most Dangerous to Drive

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered responsible in a rear-end accident?

In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered responsible in a rear-end accident. This is because drivers are expected to maintain a safe distance and be prepared to stop if the vehicle in front suddenly reduces its speed. 

However, exceptional circumstances such as adverse weather conditions or an abrupt and unexpected stop by the front vehicle could influence the assignment of responsibility.

What kind of evidence should I collect at the scene of a rear-end accident?

At the scene of a rear-end accident, it is crucial to collect evidence such as photographs of the damage to the vehicles and the location of impact, obtain contact and insurance information from the other driver, take note of possible witnesses, and request a police report if necessary. These elements will help support your claim to the insurance company and, if necessary, in future legal actions.

Do I need to hire a lawyer after a rear-end accident in New York?

While not mandatory, it is recommended to hire a lawyer after a rear-end accident in New York, regardless of the severity of your injuries. A specialized accident lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation, and provide legal guidance in case of disputes or legal actions.

Do you need experienced accident lawyers? At Nonna Shikh Law, we have over 25 years of experience and are ready to fight by your side to defend your rights. Call us now at 718-295-4000.