Deland Rear End Car Accident Lawyers

Rear-end car accidents are among the most common car crashes in the United States, accounting for approximately 29% of all car accidents. If you or a loved one have been involved in a rear-end car accident in DeLand, Florida, you need experienced, dedicated legal representation.

At Zimmet & Zimmet, our DeLand rear-end car accident lawyers are committed to helping victims of rear-end collisions seek the compensation they deserve.

We offer free consultations to all clients to discuss their claims and let them know what legal options they have.

The Dangers of Rear-End Car Accidents

Rear-end car accidents are common and can lead to serious injuries and consequences for those involved. Understanding the dangers associated with these collisions is vital for preventing and ensuring you are prepared to seek legal help.

The Severity of Injuries

Rear-end car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. In many cases, the injuries’ severity depends on the impact’s speed and force.

Common injuries sustained in rear-end collisions include the following:

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result from the forceful impact of a rear-end car accident. These injuries may lead to temporary or permanent paralysis, loss of sensation, and chronic pain, significantly affecting an individual’s quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when a sudden impact, like that experienced in a rear-end collision, causes damage to the brain. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, mood disorders, and long-term disabilities.

Broken Bones

Rear-end car accidents can cause broken bones due to the force of the collision. Fractures may range from simple breaks to complex, multiple fractures requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Broken bones can limit mobility, result in chronic pain, and have long-lasting effects on overall well-being.

It is crucial to seek medical attention following a rear-end accident, even if you feel fine initially, as symptoms of some injuries may not present themselves immediately.

Factors Contributing to Rear-End Collisions

Various factors contribute to rear-end collisions, which can result in significant injuries and damages. Being aware of these contributing factors can help drivers take necessary precautions and reduce the risk of such accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of rear-end collisions. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving can take a driver’s attention away from the road, leading to accidents. In 2019, over 3,100 people were killed in distracted driving crashes in the United States.

Following Too Closely

Florida Statute 316.0895 states that a driver must not follow another vehicle “more closely than is reasonable and prudent” given the speed of the vehicles, traffic, and road conditions. Following too closely, or tailgating, increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions, reducing the time available for the following driver to react and avoid a collision.

Speeding

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react and increases the stopping distance required to avoid a collision. In 2019, speeding contributed to 26% of all traffic fatalities in the United States.

Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, or snow can significantly increase the risk of rear-end collisions. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces make it more challenging for drivers to maintain a safe following distance and react to changes in traffic.

Establishing Liability in DeLand Rear-End Car Accidents

In rear-end car accidents, establishing liability is crucial for determining who is responsible for the damages and injuries sustained. A clear understanding of liability can help ensure that the at-fault party is held accountable and that the injured party receives fair compensation. Our personal injury lawyers have helped many in the past.

Presumption of Liability

In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is presumed to be at fault for the accident. This is because they are generally considered to have followed too closely or failed to pay proper attention to the road. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and the presumption of liability can be challenged under certain circumstances.

Comparative Negligence

Florida follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means that both parties involved in an accident can share liability, and the damages awarded to each party will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for a rear-end collision, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. This is why having an experienced DeLand rear-end car accident lawyer on your side is essential to help establish liability and maximize your compensation.

Investigating the Accident

A thorough investigation of a rear-end car accident is essential for building a strong case and securing fair compensation. Collecting and analyzing crucial evidence can provide valuable insights into the accident’s circumstances and help establish liability.

Gathering Evidence

Our DeLand rear-ends car accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate your accident to gather crucial evidence supporting your claim. This may include obtaining police reports, analyzing accident scene photographs, reviewing traffic camera footage, and consulting with expert witnesses.

Determining Damages

Determining the appropriate damages to be claimed in a rear-end car accident case is vital for ensuring fair compensation for the injured party. Accurately assessing losses and evaluating the accident’s impact on the victim’s life helps establish a justifiable claim.

Calculating the Value of Your Claim

The amount of compensation you can recover in a rear-end car accident case depends on various factors, such as the extent of your injuries, the impact of the accident on your ability to work, and the level of pain and suffering you have experienced. Our DeLand rear-ends car accident lawyers will work closely with you to evaluate your losses and determine a fair value for your claim.

Types of Damages

You may be entitled to recover several types of damages in a rear-end car accident case. These include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other necessary care.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries have forced you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn a living, you may be entitled to recover your lost wages and future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced due to your injuries.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Our DeLand rear-end car accident lawyers have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of our clients. We understand the tactics insurers use to minimize or deny claims, and we are skilled at countering these strategies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations with the insurance company, our DeLand rear-end car accident lawyers are prepared to file a lawsuit and fight for your rights in court.

Statute of Limitations

Florida law, known as the statute of limitations, imposes a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you must file a lawsuit four years from the accident date. If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to recover compensation. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced DeLand rear-end car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Contact a Deland Rear End Car Accident Lawyer for Help

If you or a loved one have been injured in a rear-end car accident in DeLand, Florida, you need expert legal representation to help you navigate the complex process of pursuing compensation.

At Zimmet & Zimmet, our DeLand rear-end car accident lawyers are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.