Car crashes are an unfortunately common occurrence, particularly rear-end collisions. However, securing appropriate compensation for an accident that was not your fault can be complicated.
If you or someone you love gets hurt in a rear-end car accident in Elk Grove Village, consult a local vehicle accident attorney as soon as possible. Proving damages related to rear-end collisions can be tricky, and you may need an experienced legal advocate to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries Resulting From Rear-End Collisions
Any high-speed collision can cause catastrophic injury or death, including rear-end collisions. However, rear-end accidents often happen at low speeds. Injuries are not always apparent immediately. The impact of these types of crashes often causes the heads of the vehicles’ occupants to jerk back and forth forcefully and quickly, but they might not feel anything more than moderate discomfort for a few hours or even days.
Other common types of injuries in rear-end crashes include:
- Whiplash, otherwise known as neck hyperextension
- Back injuries, especially herniated disks and damage to the soft tissues in the shoulder and upper back
- Broken or dislocated knee joints resulting from the force of the collision causing the knees to slam into the dashboard
- Disfiguring facial injuries if the impact forces the face into the windshield
Many crash survivors also develop anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Getting medical treatment is essential for anyone in a rear-end collision, as the medical record generated soon after the accident is evidence an Elk Grove Village attorney could use to prove a claim for damages.
Establishing Fault for a Rear-End Crash
State law follows the traditional, at-fault system regarding car accident claims. 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes § 5/7-601 requires anyone registering a vehicle to have liability insurance that pays for the damages that others experience in an accident caused by the insurance holder’s actions.
In most cases, the driver of the rear vehicle is at fault for a rear-end collision because they were driving while distracted, speeding, following too close, DUI, or other infractions. While the law presumes the driver of the rear vehicle is to blame, sometimes, the forward driver is at fault. If the rear driver could show the forward vehicle’s brake lights were faulty or the driver stopped suddenly and unexpectedly without reason, the forward vehicle could be liable.
Unless one party is clearly at fault, allocating blame amongst the involved drivers often requires significant negotiation. When both drivers bear some responsibility, the damages an injured driver receives are reduced by their degree of fault. An Elk Grove Village attorney could present evidence disputing an injured driver’s fault for a rear-end crash to pursue the maximum possible compensation.
Seek Compensation After a Rear-End Collision With an Elk Grove Village Attorney
People sometimes try to handle car crash claims themselves. They might believe working with an attorney would slow the process or take money from their pocket. The truth is that letting a legal professional handle your case can result in larger settlements or verdicts while avoiding unreasonable delays.
If you were in a rear-end car accident in Elk Grove Village, consider working with a local injury attorney. Call a knowledgeable legal professional at The Kryder Law Group, LLC about your situation today.
(312) 223-1700