If you’ve been driving for some time, you’ve likely experienced a rear-end collision. These are common occurrences, especially in heavy New Jersey traffic. While such accidents may not always cause significant vehicular damage, they can be jarring and lead to long-term injuries that might not be immediately apparent. This potential for delayed pain and complications underscores the importance of having skilled legal representation to navigate the aftermath of such accidents.
At Nagel Rice LLP, our experienced personal injury attorneys are adept at handling cases involving rear-end accidents. With over 30 years of legal practice and a history of compassionate client advocacy, our team has secured over $1 billion in damages for our clients. Operating from our offices in New Jersey & New York, we are committed to ensuring that victims of rear-end collisions receive the justice and compensation they need to address their injuries and recover fully.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in New Jersey
In New Jersey, rear-end collisions are frequent on the roads, and understanding the common causes of these accidents is crucial for those seeking to understand their legal rights after an incident. From distracted driving to poor road conditions, here are ten primary factors contributing to the state’s rear-end collisions:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Wet or slippery roads
- Sudden stops
- Poor visibility
- Mechanical failures
- Driver fatigue
- Impaired driving
- Road rage
How We Can Help After a Rear-End Accident
Our car crash attorneys have a proven track record of success. We have obtained settlements and verdicts for our clients far beyond their expectations. One case in point is a $4.05 million settlement for a client in Morris County who was paralyzed in a rear-end collision. Many other settlements, verdicts, and testimonials are available for scrutiny on our website. They demonstrate our commitment to our clients, our vigorous representation of their issues, and our high success rate in collecting the damages they deserve.
Exceptions to the Rule in New Jersey
Though not typical, your car may also be rear-ended because the car behind you has a mechanical defect, such as faulty brakes, or because your car’s brake lights or hazard lights are not functioning properly. In such circumstances, it is possible that the other party may not be considered at fault. Liability may rest with the car manufacturer, dealer, or repair shop. The more complicated or ambiguous the particulars of the accident, the more you need a highly capable, knowledgeable attorney on your side.
Whatever the reason your vehicle has been impacted from behind, it is wise for you to contact both your doctor and one of our skilled accident attorneys to have your situation assessed. It is important for you to be evaluated medically since, even if you are not in pain now, the doctor will be able to assess your range of motion and other aspects of your medical condition that may indicate injuries that may cause future difficulties. Our office is well-prepared to clarify your legal options.
Common Injuries Sustained After a Rear-End Accident
Common injuries seen in serious rear-end accidents include:
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Shoulder, knee, and/or back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures
- Internal injuries
Can Both Parties Be Responsible for a Rear-End Accident?
Most states in this country recognize the possibility that more than one party may be at fault in an accident, even a rear-end collision. New Jersey is referred to as a “modified comparative fault” state, meaning that an injured plaintiff can only collect damages if he or she bears less responsibility for the accident than the individual being sued. Because rear-end collisions are most often considered the fault of the driver in back, this is usually not an issue for the front driver in making a claim of damages. Nonetheless, the plaintiff’s compensation will be lessened by the percentage of blame the court assigns to that person. If, for example, the driver of the front car is determined to bear 10 percent of the fault for the collision and the court awards that person $100,000 worth of damages, the plaintiff will receive only $90,000.
What Sets Our Personal Injury Attorneys Apart
In New Jersey, rear-end collisions are among the most common traffic accidents, frequently resulting in considerable injuries and damages. As legal advocates specializing in personal injury cases, Nagel Rice LLP emphasizes the importance of understanding the primary factors contributing to these accidents. Whether it’s the distraction of a smartphone or the sudden halt in traffic, recognizing these causes is key for prevention and navigating the aftermath legally. Here are the top ten causes of rear-end collisions across New Jersey, highlighting what drivers and victims should know.
Contact Our New Jersey & New York Rear-End Accident Attorneys
It is in your interest to get in touch with Nagel Rice as promptly as possible, both because there is a 2-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims in New Jersey and because our attorneys will be better able to reconstruct the accident the sooner we can amass information about it. If you have been injured in a rear-end car accident, contact Nagel Rice LLP. The sooner you contact us, the sooner you will have the peace of mind of hiring competent, compassionate attorneys who want nothing more than to help you receive the damages you deserve.
Nagel Rice LLP helps its clients with their car accident and injury claims throughout New Jersey, including Roseland, Bergen County, Essex County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Sussex County. We also represent clients in New York.