Rear-end collisions, even seemingly minor ones, can lead to serious injuries, some of which may not show symptoms immediately. From whiplash to more severe spinal or back injuries, the impact of these accidents can cause lasting physical and financial challenges.
Working with a rear-end accident lawyer in Charlotte can help you pursue damages through a claim or a lawsuit. Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers has been serving the Carolinas since 1995, offering personalized legal support and recovering over $100 million for clients.
Our Charlotte car accident lawyer is here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to discuss your rear-end collision.
Why You Need A Lawyer After A Rear-end Accident
Rear-end accidents may seem like straightforward fender benders, but legal and insurance issues can escalate, especially in North Carolina, where the pure contributory negligence rule applies.
Under North Carolina law, if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering damages. Having a personal injury lawyer in Charlotte can help you do the following:
- Prove fault: Insurance companies may try to shift blame, even in rear-end accidents. A lawyer can gather evidence, such as crash reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction, to demonstrate the other driver’s negligence.
- Pursue multiple at-fault parties: If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the crash, their employer might also be held liable. In cases involving drunk driving, a lawyer may pursue a dram shop claim against a bar or restaurant that overserved the driver.
- Handle communications with insurance companies: Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts or deny insurance claims altogether. A lawyer can manage all communications, working to negotiate a fair settlement offer or take legal action against a liable party by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
- Advocate for your best interests: In cases of gross negligence or willful and wanton conduct, such as drunk driving, you may still recover damages even if contributory negligence is a factor. A Charlotte rear-end accident attorney can identify these opportunities and advocate for your right to compensation.
After seeking medical attention at the hospital, consult a lawyer as soon as possible.
Distracted Driving Usually The Cause Of Rear-end Collisions
Rear-end collisions usually come without warning. Drivers typically focus on their front and sides, not the rear of their vehicle. Even if a driver is aware of an impending impact from the rear, there is often no evasive action that can be taken to avoid a crash.
Most rear-end collisions happen when the at-fault driver is:
- Distracted or not paying attention
- Following too closely
- Trying to beat a changing light
- Changing lanes unsafely
- Speeding
- Intoxicated
In hazardous driving conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, a rear-end collision can occur when a driver does not adjust their speed for the conditions.
Normally, it is the driver of the rear car who will be found liable for injuries and damages. The exception to this general rule is when three or more cars are involved, and there is a chain reaction collision. In that case, the driver of the car that started the chain reaction would be responsible.
Whiplash, Neck Injuries, And Back Injuries In Car Accidents
Rear-end accidents frequently cause specific injuries, such as whiplash. While accident victims may not feel the immediate effects of these injuries, they can worsen without immediate medical treatment.
Prioritize seeking medical care after a rear-end car accident. Any delay in doing so can result in a longer, less complete medical recovery, and an insurance company may attempt to undervalue or deny your injury claim.
Our rear-end accident attorneys in Charlotte have seen the following injuries result from these types of collisions:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a hyperextension/hyperflexion injury that results from the head being violently forced forward and then immediately whipped backward.
This type of injury often occurs in rear-end accidents, as the force stretches the neck structures beyond the normal range of motion, causing pain and stiffness. Symptoms may not appear until a day or two following an accident.
Back Injuries
These injuries can occur when stress is placed on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, forcing an abnormal range of motion. Back injuries can include herniated discs or even more severe spinal cord injuries.
Head Injuries
Head injuries can range from minor concussions to traumatic brain injuries, which have the capacity to alter every aspect of your life and lead to a lifetime of medical expenses and reduced quality of life.
These injuries can affect your range of motion, cause missed time from work, and be costly to treat. You may suffer lost wages and diminished earning capacity if these injuries lead to long-term medical complications.
Potential Compensation In A Rear-end Accident Lawsuit
A rear-end collision can leave you facing significant expenses and long-term effects. Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation will depend on factors like your medical evaluation, the projected cost of ongoing medical treatment, and the circumstances of the car accident.
Medical Bills
A verdict or settlement may cover your medical expenses, such as emergency care, surgeries, and physical therapy. Ongoing treatment for chronic injuries like back or neck pain may warrant awards for future medical treatment.
Your medical records can help our attorneys assess and demonstrate the extent of your losses.
Lost Income
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may also seek compensation for lost wages and, in more severe cases, reduced earning capacity, which covers the long-term impact on your ability to earn a living.
Pain And Suffering
Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, are also common in these cases, particularly when the accident leads to ongoing physical discomfort due to whiplash.
Other Non-economic Injuries
For accidents that result in lasting injuries, such as scarring, disfigurement, or permanent disabilities, additional compensation may be available to reflect the long-term impact on your quality of life. Additionally, damages for property loss can help cover the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal items damaged in the crash.
A rear-end accident lawyer can help identify all potential damages, calculate the full value of your losses, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Our Charlotte Rear-end Car Accident Lawyers
When you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, you need a legal team that understands your situation and works to protect your best interests.
Auger & Auger has been serving the Carolinas since 1995, giving us nearly 30 years of experience handling personal injury cases. Our attorneys have, on average, 19 years of experience each, making them highly skilled in building strong cases for accident victims.
Over the years, we’ve recovered over $100 million for our clients, helping them move forward after serious accidents. With a 99.5% success rate, we have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes.
Personalized Representation From A Family-owned Firm
As a local, family-owned law firm, we take pride in offering personalized attention to every client. Our team is more accessible and focused on understanding the unique details of your case.
Our rear-end collision attorneys in Charlotte develop tailored legal strategies with your best interests in mind, making sure you feel supported throughout the process.
Convenient And Client-focused Services
We aim to make the legal process as stress-free as possible by offering:
- Travel for consultations: If you’re unable to come to us, we’ll come to you, whether you’re at home or in the hospital.
- Online document signing: For added convenience, we provide secure online document signing so you can focus on your recovery.
- Help finding medical care: We can point you to trusted medical providers to help you get the treatment you need.
No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This allows you to pursue justice and financial recovery without worrying about legal fees.
Commitment To Client Success
Our Charlotte, NC, rear-end accident lawyers always look out for our clients. From the start to the end of your personal injury claim, we’re dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve after suffering injuries in a negligence-based car accident.
Statute Of Limitations For Rear-end Accident Lawsuits
Most personal injury cases start by filing an insurance claim to recover damages. If the insurance company denies the claim or refuses a fair settlement, however, filing a civil lawsuit may be necessary.
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is three years from the date of the accident, under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52(5).
Claims involving a city, county, or state entity may involve special procedural requirements or shorter notice deadlines. Our team can review whether additional steps apply in your case.
Missing this deadline or the overall statute of limitations can prevent you from recovering compensation. Contacting a lawyer promptly helps you determine and meet your legal deadline.
Call Us For A Confidential Consultation To Discuss Your Rear-end Car Collision
Do not assume a rear-end collision is minor. Seek medical attention in the hospital and begin building your case for compensation. Our Charlotte car accident lawyers at Auger & Auger can provide a tailored legal strategy and work to hold all responsible parties accountable.
With our A & A Zero Fee GuaranteeTM, you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. During your free and confidential consultation, we can discuss your personal injury case. Call us today!
