Steps After A Rear-End Accident

When Should I Contact A Car Accident Attorney?

Following a rear-end collision, you should contact an experienced car accident attorney as soon as you can. This is because you want to ensure your claim is filed within the proper statute of limitations so you are not barred from bringing your case altogether. 

The statute of limitations is the time frame during which a lawsuit can be filed within the jurisdiction. If a case is brought after the statute of limitations period ends, then the claimant is generally barred from bringing the case forward unless there are specific exceptions surrounding the facts of the case and the reason for the delay in filing. 

Typically, a car accident case must be brought within two years of the date of the accident in most jurisdictions. That is also the case in Colorado. So, if you find yourself the victim of a rear-end collision in Denver or elsewhere in Colorado, be sure to get in touch with Bachus & Schanker as soon as possible within that two-year statute of limitations to ensure your claim is properly filed. 

What Steps Should I Take After A Rear-End Accident? 

If you or a loved one are the victim of a rear-end accident, taking the following steps will ensure you obtain the proper compensation and justice you are owed. Following these steps will help the process move as quickly as possible. 

After a car crash, you should:

• Call 911 immediately.
• If you or anyone else is injured, do not move your vehicle or attempt to get out of the vehicle until the EMTs arrive and assess the situation.
• Only leave the vehicle if you are in imminent danger like the car is on fire.
• Seek medical treatment, even for minor rear-end car accident injuries.
• Only move the vehicle when instructed by the police.
• Gather evidence, including pictures and videos of the accident scene and the contact details of any witnesses.
• Take note if there are any street cameras or security cameras on businesses nearby.
• Exchange information with the other driver and make sure to get their vehicle’s make, model, year, and license plate number.
• When the police respond to the scene, they should write a report. If they do not respond to the accident, file an accident report online as soon as you can.
• Complete Form 2489 to get a copy of the accident report.
• Keep accurate and detailed records of medical care, lost income, and anything else relevant.
• Contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible for a free consultation to help you understand your rights and file a lawsuit for compensation.

While rear-end accidents seem like they may be easy to win and are self-explanatory because the person operating the vehicle that hit the car in front of them should be at fault, that certainly is not the case. There are so many different aspects that must be taken into consideration when filing this type of accident case, such as the cause of the impact, the weather, driver conduct, and more. 

Our seasoned car accident attorneys here at Bachus & Schanker know how to recognize all the important aspects of rear-end accidents, and we are confident in our ability to obtain maximum compensation for your damages. 

Can I Receive Damages After A Rear-End Collision? 

After a rear-end collision, you are entitled to seek economic damages and non-economic damages for any injuries or property damage you may have sustained. Some of the most common damages that can be compensated in a rear-end accident claim include: 

• Medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor visits
• Home health care
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
• Property damage
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

An experienced car accident attorney can analyze the facts of your claim to ensure you are not missing out on any damages to which you are entitled. 

Why Should I Retain A Car Accident Attorney? 

There are plenty of reasons why it is in your best interest to retain an experienced car accident lawyer to represent you in your rear-end collision case. Some of the main reasons why it might be useful to have a lawyer representing you include: 

• Significant or permanent injuries occurred. If you received any medical care for your injuries, it’s worth asking us about your compensation.
• You can’t work because of your injuries.
• It’s not clear who is at fault for the accident.
• A commercial vehicle or driver is involved in the case.
• Multiple causes of the accident are possible.
• A driver may have been under the influence.
• The insurance company is stalling or low balling the case.
• You don’t know how to go about starting a case.
• You are wondering what types of compensation can be included and if a rear-ended car accident settlement offer is fair.
• There are questions about your legal rights, and you need answers.

Usually, if there is more than just minor property damage stemming from the incident, having an attorney is essential to handle all the aspects your insurance company cannot and should not handle for you. We will file the claim with the court, handle all necessary pleadings, conduct legal research, gather evidence, and represent your interests in negotiations or trial. 

Why Should I Retain Bachus & Schanker? 

If you are worried about how you will be able to afford an attorney, don’t be. Here at Bachus & Schanker, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you will not have to pay unless we win your claim for you. 

We understand better than anyone how stressful it can be to fall victim to a rear-end collision, and we pride ourselves in helping car accident victims obtain compensation, justice, and a sense of peace once the legal action has concluded. If you or a loved one have been involved in a rear-end collision in Colorado, be sure to contact our experienced rear-end accident lawyers today.

Sources:

Barrett, S. Types of Personal Injury Damages and Compensation.

Evidence in Car Accident Lawsuits. (2023).

Forms in Number Order.

Report an Accident.

Statute of Limitations Definition.