Buffalo Rear-End Collision Accident Lawyers
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common crash types on our roads, but they can lead to serious injuries, costly medical bills, and a great deal of pain and suffering. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for the costs of those injuries.
The Buffalo rear-end collision lawyers at Hiller Comerford are here to help. We handle every aspect of your case, so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, often resulting in significant injuries and property damage. Understanding the causes of these accidents can help identify liable parties and prevent future occurrences. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
- Tailgating and Following Too Closely: Drivers who follow the vehicle ahead too closely reduce the time and distance they have to react to sudden stops. Tailgating is a leading cause of rear-end collisions, as even a momentary delay in braking can result in a crash.
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities like texting, calling, eating, or adjusting the radio diverts a driver’s attention from the road. Distracted drivers are less likely to notice sudden changes in traffic flow, making them a frequent cause of rear-end accidents.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid a collision. Aggressive behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic or braking suddenly, also increase the likelihood of rear-end crashes.
- Poor Weather Conditions (Rain, Snow, Ice): Adverse weather conditions can make roads slick and reduce visibility, increasing stopping distances and the risk of losing control. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed and following distance during inclement weather often cause rear-end collisions.
- Defective Vehicle Equipment (Brakes, Tires): Mechanical failures, such as worn brakes or poorly maintained tires, can impair a vehicle’s ability to stop safely. Defective equipment not only endangers the driver but also others on the road.
Common Injuries From Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor discomfort to life-altering conditions. Here are some of the most common injuries victims suffer in these types of accidents:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Whiplash is the most frequently reported injury in rear-end collisions, caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the head and neck during impact. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and in severe cases, chronic discomfort or mobility issues.
- Back Injuries and Spinal Cord Damage: The sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can lead to herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result in chronic back pain, reduced mobility, or even partial or complete paralysis in severe cases.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and Concussions: The impact of a rear-end collision can cause the head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or headrest, leading to concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries. These injuries may cause headaches, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and long-term cognitive impairments.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of impact can result in broken bones, particularly in the arms, wrists, ribs, or legs. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, and can take weeks or months to heal.
- Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Rear-end collisions frequently cause sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. While these injuries may seem minor, they can lead to significant pain and limited range of motion if not properly treated.
Compensation for Rear-End Collision Victims
Victims of rear-end collisions in New York may be entitled to compensation to address the physical, emotional, and financial burdens caused by the accident.
Under New York’s no-fault insurance system, injured parties can typically recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other economic damages directly from their own insurance provider, regardless of who was at fault. However, for severe injuries—such as spinal cord injuries, significant disfigurement, or permanent disability—victims may step outside the no-fault system to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Compensation in these cases can cover both past and future medical expenses, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Victims may also be entitled to recover lost wages if they are unable to work and compensation for diminished earning capacity if their injuries impact their long-term ability to earn a living.
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, may also be pursued to account for the physical and emotional toll of the accident. Additionally, victims can seek reimbursement for property damage, including vehicle repairs or replacement.
What to Do After a Rear-End Collision in Buffalo
Taking the right steps after a rear-end collision can protect your health and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue compensation:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries aren’t immediately visible, see a doctor to rule out hidden injuries and document your condition.
- Contact the Police: Report the accident and ensure a police report is filed, as this can serve as valuable evidence.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, damage, and surroundings, and collect contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
- Notify Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, providing accurate details.
- Contact a Buffalo Rear-End Collision Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate insurance claims, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a rear-end collision, the team at Hiller Comerford is here to guide you through the process.
How Hiller Comerford Can Help
At Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law, our car accident lawyers are committed to supporting rear-end collision victims in Buffalo and throughout New York. Our experienced attorneys provide the legal guidance and advocacy you need to pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Here’s how we can help:
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We’ll review the details of your accident, assess your injuries, and explain your options for pursuing compensation, whether through New York’s no-fault system or a personal injury claim.
- Evidence Gathering and Analysis: Our team will collect critical evidence, such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident scene photos, to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Expert Negotiation: We’ll handle all communication with insurance companies, working to secure a settlement that fully covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Courtroom Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Client-Focused Advocacy: At Hiller Comerford, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney who is dedicated to providing personal attention and keeping you informed throughout the process.
With decades of experience and a deep understanding of New York’s laws, we are here to advocate for your rights and help you move forward after a rear-end collision. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you.
Contact Our Buffalo Rear-End Collision Accident Lawyers Today
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, don’t navigate the legal process alone. The attorneys at Hiller Comerford are here to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
With our experience, dedication, and client-focused approach, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and recovery.
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