Rear-End Car Accidents in New York: What You Need to Know
Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of car crashes, and they can lead to serious injuries. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in New York, it’s important to understand your rights and how the law works in these situations. Here’s what you should know:
Who Is Typically at Fault in a Rear-End Accident?
In New York, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is often considered at fault, as they are typically responsible for maintaining a safe following distance.
Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Injuries from rear-end collisions can range from minor to severe. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash: One of the most common injuries in rear-end crashes, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, causing strain on the neck and spine.
- Back and Spine Injuries: Sudden impacts can lead to serious back injuries, including herniated discs or spinal cord damage.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Even with seat belts on, head injuries like concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur if the impact is severe.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries can affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments, causing pain and long-term discomfort.
What to Do After a Rear-End Accident
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision, here are the steps you should take:
- Check for Injuries: Assess your injuries and those of others involved in the crash. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Move to Safety: If possible, move your car to a safe location to avoid further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Exchange Information: Get the names, contact information, insurance details, and driver’s license numbers of all parties involved.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and any visible injuries.
- Report the Accident: In New York, accidents involving injuries or property damage over $1,000 must be reported to the police.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, get a medical evaluation. Injuries like whiplash may not show symptoms right away.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help?
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident, a skilled New York personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the Accident: We’ll gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records, to establish fault.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize the payout. Our lawyers will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Seek Compensation for Damages: You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Liability in Taxi Accidents
Taxi accidents generally involve liability on the part of the taxi driver or the taxi company. If the driver was acting negligently (e.g., speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs), the driver may be directly responsible for the accident. The taxi company may also share liability, particularly if the driver was not properly trained, if the vehicle was not properly maintained, or if the company failed to ensure the driver’s fitness to operate the vehicle.
- Taxi Company: If the taxi driver was working as an employee at the time of the accident, the taxi company may be held vicariously liable for the driver’s actions. This means that the company’s insurance could cover medical expenses, damages, and other compensation for the injured person.
- Other Drivers: In some cases, a taxi accident may be caused by the negligence of another motorist, such as another driver who crashes into the taxi or cuts the taxi off, leading to a collision.
Why Choose Us?
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, our experienced team of New York personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. We understand the impact of a car accident and are committed to helping you recover both physically and financially.
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward your recovery.
Get Legal Help Today: Contact Our Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a rear-end collision in New York, understanding your rights and the legal process is essential. Rear-end accidents often result in injuries like whiplash, back and spine injuries, head trauma, and soft tissue damage. The driver who rear-ends another vehicle is typically considered at fault.