Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of road collisions. They account for more than 29% of all road accidents. Around 2.5 million rear-end accidents occur each year in the United States. These crashes result in thousands of injuries and in some cases death.
When you’re involved in a road accident, we can get you the rear-end collision injury compensation that you deserve. Our years of experience will ensure that you are compensated for your pain and suffering.
What is the Average Settlement for rear-end Collision accidents? How much is a rear-end accident worth in terms of losses and compensation? Keep reading to find out the average settlement for rear-end car accident settlements.
What is a Rear-End Collision Accident?
A rear-end collision occurs when a car crashes into the car in front of it hitting it in the rear-end. They often occur at a red light, a stop sign, or in congested traffic situations. Most of these crashes happen at low speeds. This will result in a low-speed rear-end collision settlement.
What are the Causes of Rear-End Accidents?
The most common cause of rear-end collisions is distracted driving. Other factors that contribute to the problem are following too closely and speeding. Let’s look at these incidents a little bit closer.
Distracted Driving
When a driver is distracted while driving they become a hazard on the road. Drivers can be distracted by other passengers in the vehicle, talking, texting on their cell phones or looking away from the road to change the radio station, or reaching for something in the back seat. Looking away from the road for even a second could result in rear-ended car accident settlements.
Studies have shown:
- Texting while driving accounts for 34% of distracted driving incidents
- 24% are caused by talking on cell phones
- 18% from reaching for something and taking your eyes off the road
- The rest is made up of distracted drivers, eating, smoking, or glancing away from the road
Not Keeping the Correct Following Distance
Following other vehicles too closely and not keeping the correct following distance between cars is another major contributing factor. If the car in front of you stops suddenly, you need enough space in between vehicles to act quickly. If you are following too closely you won’t have sufficient time to react. This can result in a rear-end collision settlement accident.
Not Obeying the Speed Limit
Speeding in general is frowned upon but it is also one of the deadliest causes of accidents. Drivers can easily lose control of their vehicles at high speeds or not be able to stop in time to avoid a rear-end collision.
How much compensation will I get for a Rear-End Accident?
It is difficult to determine how much compensation the average settlement for rear-end car accidents should be. What is important is to seek an attorney who is experienced and qualified to handle your claim. The value of your claim is based upon the following factors:
- The amount of your medical billings;
- The amount of any wage loss;
- The nature of your injuries;
- Was surgery required;
- Pain and suffering experienced, and,
- The nature of any permanent disabilities and limitations.
For long-term injuries and disabilities or in the case of amputation or you are paralyzed you need to contact an attorney who is skilled in handling these types of claims.
Our experts can assist you in working up your claim, and help determine the value of your claim. If the insurance company does not properly evaluate your claim a lawsuit will need to be filed.
Factors that Influence the Settlement Amounts
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The Severity of the Injury
The more severely you are injured the more money you will be entitled to. These injuries are referred to as hard injuries, they include injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, and soft-tissue injuries. Injuries that leave permanent scars or lasting damage will be awarded larger rear-ended collision settlements. Other injuries such as brain trauma, disfigurement, and permanent loss of use of a body part will be awarded higher rear-ended car accident settlement compensation amounts.
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Disruptions
Missing work or disruption in your daily life, deserve compensation. Injuries that change your lifestyle or your ability to function normally will result in higher compensation. If you are unable to work, travel or play sports you deserve higher compensation.
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Treatment and Recovery
A larger settlement will be provided if you require hospitalization, incur doctor’s fees, or need to see a physician or chiropractor. Surgeries and rehabilitation will also need to be compensated for. The duration of the recovery period will also significantly affect the amount of money you can receive.
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Certainty of Liability
The first factor you will need to determine is if the defendant is even liable for your injuries. You need to contact an expert to argue liability for your case. Once liability is established your settlement amount should be raised significantly. An attorney can assist in this matter and help you establish the strongest case possible.
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Emotional and Mental Trauma
Sometimes the injuries that you sustain are not visible to the naked eye. You may experience pain and suffering in the form of emotional or mental trauma. Psychological trauma is difficult to gauge and requires input from psychologists and other mental health professionals.
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Newsworthiness
Have you ever heard the saying that there is no such thing as bad publicity? If your accident makes negative news headlines this can cause your settlement to skyrocket, especially if the defendant is high-profile and would be affected negatively should they decide not to settle.
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Cost of Litigation
Litigation is a very costly affair, the cost of clerical work, deposing witnesses, and hiring experts to assist all add to the total costs. Defendants may be willing to settle at a higher price to avoid added defense costs.
FAQs – Rear-End Collision Settlement Amount
Do I Have to Take an Insurance Company Settlement?
You are under no obligation to accept the insurance company’s settlement for your claim. You should contact a lawyer to ensure that you are being compensated fairly and that all your injuries, both physical and mental, have been taken into account. If you suffer permanent injuries or disabilities it’s important that you contact the right experts to ensure your claim is handled correctly.
What kind of Injuries can you get from a Rear-End Collision?
When your vehicle is rear-ended, your body is put through stress and movement that can lead to injuries. If you are restrained by your seatbelt or your airbag deploys, you can suffer injuries to the face, head, or body.
Some common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Seat belt injuries
- Back injuries
- Head injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Crushed limbs
- Amputation and maiming
What Mistakes Should I Avoid With Settlements?
The most common mistakes when dealing with settlements are as follows:
- Never accept or admit that you were at fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be seen as an admission of guilt.
- The insurance company isn’t on your side. Don’t give them any kind of statement at the scene. Instead, contact your lawyer immediately.
- Wait for the police report, you are not required to say anything at the scene of the accident.
- Don’t accept the first settlement offer. The insurance company will always try to resolve the claim quickly and at the lowest cost. If you take the first offer it will be difficult to seek additional damages later. Delay taking a deal until you’re confident there won’t be any more expenses related to the accident.
- Don’t minimize the extent of your injuries. When asked how you’re doing, don’t answer with “I’m fine” This can lead to a lower compensation value. It’s also important not to exaggerate. All injuries should be documented by medical professionals.
- Contact an experienced and skilled lawyer to assist you with your claim.
Conclusions
At Coluccio Law, we are dedicated to creating real and positive change in people’s lives. We aim to get you the compensation that you deserve. If you have been injured in a rear-end collision that wasn’t your fault, contact us to find out how we can assist you.
Visit our website or call us today for a no-obligation-free quote. There is no need to suffer in silence. Contact our team today for expert assistance you can trust.
