Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Lawyers | Jacoby & Meyers Injury Lawyers

Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Lawyer

Rear-end collisions are unfortunately common, especially in traffic-heavy areas like Los Angeles. These accidents can happen at both low and high speeds, often resulting in property damage, injuries, and even fatalities.

Moreover, low-speed rear-end collisions are frequent, and while some people may walk away unharmed, others suffer severe injuries like whiplash, which affects the head and upper neck. High-speed rear-end collisions, on the other hand, can be even more dangerous, leading to catastrophic injuries or death. Unfortunately, these consequences can leave accident victims overwhelmed, drained, and frustrated.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we aim to help you during this difficult time. With over half a century of empowering clients, our Los Angeles accident lawyers can recover fair compensation for the damages you sustained from a rear-end accident. We will manage your case while you get your life back on track.

Count on us to defend your rights and pursue the outcome you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation and see how we can make a difference.

Why Choose Jacoby & Meyers for Your Rear-End Collision Case?

Rear-end accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and even wrongful death. The more severe the injuries and their impact on your life, the higher your compensation will be.

Unfortunately, if you put your faith in the wrong hands, you won’t get the justice you deserve, as some lawyers may just accept any case for the money without putting the utmost effort into fighting for fair compensation.

If you choose to work with our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers, we guarantee you full-service support and trustworthy legal services:

Unmatched Expertise with Proven Results
With over 50 years of experience in rear-end collision cases, we’ve consistently secured justice for our clients. Our deep understanding of these claims ensures your case is in capable hands.

No Win, No Fee—Zero Financial Risk
We believe in your right to justice without financial strain. That’s why we work on a contingency basis—if we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

Specialists in California Law

Understanding California’s car and personal injury laws requires precision and skill. Our team’s in-depth knowledge ensures every aspect of your case is managed meticulously.

Full-Service Support for Your Recovery
You focus on healing; we’ll handle the rest. From collecting critical evidence to negotiating fiercely with insurance companies, we tackle every legal challenge so you don’t have to.

A Compassionate, Client-Centered Approach
You’re more than a case to us—you’re family. We prioritize open communication, personalized care, and genuine compassion, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

Let us stand by you during this challenging time, fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.

How Do Rear-End Collisions Happen, and What Causes Them?

A rear-end collision happens when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. This typically occurs when the car in front suddenly stops, and the rear driver doesn’t have enough time to brake, leading to a collision with the rear of the first vehicle.

The speed and size of the cars play a significant role in how much damage is done and how badly people are hurt in car accidents. This is because the impact of a rear-end collision depends on how fast the cars are going and how heavy they are.

When two cars hit, the force travels through their bumpers and frames, affecting both vehicles. This force makes the cars bend or break and move in opposite directions. The faster and heavier the vehicles, the stronger the force, which leads to more damage and more serious injuries.

Unfortunately, there are several reasons why rear-end accidents occur, and the most common causes are the following:

- Distracted driving can cause drivers to fail to notice traffic or road conditions changes, leading to accidents.
- Speeding reduces a driver’s time to react to unexpected events, making it more challenging to avoid a collision.
- Tailgating leaves little room to brake in an emergency and can result in rear-end collisions.
- Sudden stops can be challenging to react to, especially if a driver is not paying full attention or their vehicle is too heavy to come to a complete stop.
- Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Driver fatigue can slow reaction times and impair decision-making, making it more difficult to avoid accidents.
- Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs can reduce reaction time and decision-making abilities, often leading to accidents.

To avoid such situations, it is crucial to practice safe driving and always be aware of your surroundings when traveling.

Can I File a Personal Injury Claim for a Rear-End Collision?

If a rear vehicle hits you and causes injuries, you may file a personal injury claim. This legal action helps you recover financial compensation for the damages you incur from an accident that resulted from another driver’s wrongful actions.

However, there are specific criteria you must meet before having the right to compensation. In personal injury law, you can only file a claim if:

- Another driver acted negligently while driving.
- Their behavior caused an accident.
- You sustained injuries or other damages from the crash.

If you meet these elements, you can pursue a personal injury case. But, if you are unsure, it is best to contact a personal injury lawyer who can assess your situation and determine if you have the right to compensation.

Understanding California Driving Laws About Rear-End Collisions

Remember that rear-end collisions can happen in two ways: a crash where one vehicle is too slow or suddenly stops and an accident where another is driving too fast. Hence, several laws govern rear-end collisions.

California Vehicle Code § 22350

California’s basic speed law says drivers shouldn’t go faster than what is safe for the current road, traffic, or weather conditions. Even if you’re driving at the posted speed limit, you could still be at fault if you move too fast for the conditions and cause a rear-end crash.

California Vehicle Code § 21703

Driving aggressively, including tailgating, is illegal and can have severe consequences. According to California Vehicle Code 21703, drivers must maintain a safe and sensible distance behind another vehicle, considering the speed of both cars and the current traffic and road conditions.

This is where the “three-second rule” comes in. This driving practice involves leaving enough space between vehicles so that at least three seconds pass between the time the leading vehicle passes a fixed point, such as a sign or a milestone, and when the driver’s vehicle passes the same point. This allows for adequate time to react to unexpected events or changes in traffic.

Moreover, drivers should increase their following distance in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or snow. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces can increase the risk of accidents and make it more challenging for vehicles, especially heavier ones, to stop or react in time. By leaving more space between cars, drivers can reduce the risk of rear-end collisions.

California Vehicle Code § 22400

Although there isn’t a specific law against driving below the speed limit, California Vehicle Code 22400 prohibits driving so slowly that it disrupts the normal flow of traffic unless necessary for safety or required by law.

The laws and guidelines governing safe driving distances, such as the “three-second rule,” are crucial in determining fault in a rear-end collision. By examining the circumstances surrounding the accident, you can determine the contributing factors that led to the crash.

Some key questions that may be considered in determining fault include:

- Did the lead driver suddenly stop or brake without warning, causing the following driver to lose control or fail to react in time?
- Was the following driver driving too closely, failing to maintain a safe distance, and leaving insufficient time to react to unexpected events?
- Was the following driver exceeding the speed limit, increasing their stopping distance and reaction time?
- Were there any other factors at play, such as road conditions, weather, or vehicle malfunction, that may have contributed to the accident?

By analyzing these factors and determining the sequence of events leading up to the collision, you can identify who is at fault and allocate liability accordingly.

How Much Compensation Can I Get for a Rear-End Crash?

A rear-end crash might seem like a simple fender-bender, but the aftermath can result in financial and emotional strain. When claiming compensation for such an accident, your settlement hinges on the extent of your damages and its impact on your life, and it’s more than just fixing your bumper—it’s about restoring your life.

For example, if you were in a rear-end collision and ended up with severe spinal cord injuries, you may seek compensation for your medical bills, the lost wages you missed from work, vehicle damage repair costs, and future health-related expenses, such as rehabilitation and treatments.

Generally, there are three main types of compensation that can be awarded in a car accident case:

- Economic damages cover the financial losses you’ve experienced, like medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages.
- Non-economic damages are more tricky to calculate. They are meant to compensate for emotional losses from a crash, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and even changes to one’s quality of life.
- Punitive damages are meant to punish someone who acted recklessly or intentionally. They’re usually only awarded in cases where the at-fault party was really negligent or tried to cause harm.

One of the biggest challenges in calculating non-economic damages is that they’re often subjective. For example, how do you put a price on emotional distress? Our experienced injury lawyers’ mission is to ensure you’re compensated fully so you’re not left bearing the cost of someone else’s carelessness. After all, when it comes to your recovery, half-measures just won’t do.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Rear-End Collision?

Being in a rear-end collision can be a life-changing experience. You may be dealing with minor injuries that need some time to heal, or you may be facing catastrophic injuries that require extensive treatment and rehabilitation. Either way, the aftermath of the crash can be overwhelming.

Aside from dealing with your physical recovery, you may also be mounting medical bills and other accident-related expenses that you didn’t anticipate. You may be missing work, which can strain your finances. And on top of all that, you may need to build a case to recover compensation for your losses.

We know how tough this can be. That’s why car accident lawyers are here to help. They aim to make the legal process as easy and stress-free as possible for you. They will handle everything from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies so you can focus on what matters most – your health and recovery.

Here’s how rear-end accident lawyers can help you:

- Investigate Your Accident: Auto accident lawyers gather all the necessary evidence to build a strong case, including medical records, police reports, and photos of the accident scene. Your testimony is crucial, but they’ll also gather other evidence to support your claim.
- Take Care of the Paperwork: Legal experts handle all the paperwork and legal formalities on your behalf. This includes notifying the liable party and the court, submitting evidence to a judge, and filing other necessary documents.
- Fight for Your Compensation: Don’t rush into signing anything! If an insurance company offers you a settlement, don’t hesitate to ask your injury lawyer to review it before committing. We’ll ensure it’s fair and you’re not giving up any rights.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: What if the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair deal? Don’t worry; your attorney negotiate with them until we get a fair settlement for you.

Don’t let the legal process add to your stress and anxiety. Let us take care of it for you. We’re here to manage your case and get the settlement you need to move forward with your life.

Crafting Your Case with Care and Precision
At Jacoby & Meyers, your case isn’t just another file—it’s a story we’re determined to win. Our team digs deep to uncover every piece of evidence, from accident reports to expert testimony, meticulously proving the driver’s negligence. With a rock-solid case in hand, we fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and the countless ways the accident has impacted your life.

Clarity That Puts You in Control
Insurance companies thrive on confusion, hoping you’ll settle for less than you deserve. That’s why we offer a free consultation to break down every detail of your case—no jargon, just straightforward answers. With clear guidance, you’ll feel confident and empowered every step of the way.

Negotiators Who Play to Win
Insurance companies love their lowball tactics, but we’re not buying it—and neither should you. Our seasoned negotiators know every trick in the book and won’t settle for a penny less than what you’re owed.

Your Health, Our Priority
Even minor injuries can snowball into big problems without proper care. That’s why we connect you with a trusted network of medical professionals, ensuring your health is a top priority while safeguarding your financial stability.

Securing the Life You Deserve
An accident doesn’t just disrupt today—it can send shockwaves through your entire future. We fight for compensation that covers your immediate needs and the long-term challenges, whether it’s career setbacks, lost income, or diminished quality of life.

A Legacy of Success You Can Count On
With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve seen it all—and we know how to win. From tight deadlines to complex legal battles, we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on healing and reclaiming your future.

Questions You May Ask

What to Do After a Rear-End Collision

If you’re involved in a rear-end accident, taking immediate action to protect your well-being and legal rights is crucial. Here’s what you should do:

- Put Your Health First: Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. A prompt medical evaluation will help diagnose and document your injuries, ensuring you receive the proper treatment and care.
- Call the Police: Don’t hesitate to call 911 and have a Los Angeles police officer respond to the scene. They’ll file a report that captures critical details about the accident, which can be helpful in building your case.
- Gather Evidence: While at the scene, take photos and videos, and collect witness information. This will help you preserve evidence that can support your claim.
- Get Legal Guidance: Once you’ve received medical attention, it’s time to consult with an experienced car accident attorney. We’ll help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Acting quickly and taking the proper steps after an accident can make a huge difference in your recovery.

Is There a Deadline When Filing a Personal Injury Case?

When filing a personal injury case in California, timing is critical. California enforces strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, giving you two years from the accident date to file your claim. Missing this deadline means you forfeit your right to seek compensation.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, victims pursuing property damage claims have three years to file, and if a victim passes away after the accident, the two-year limit starts from the date of death.

Remember that the court will dismiss your case if you miss the filing deadline. That’s why it’s essential to avoid a trial-and-error approach. Instead, consult our experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer to ensure everything is filed on time and handled correctly under California law.

What Happens If We Are Both At Fault for the Accident?

In a rear-end accident, it’s not uncommon for both drivers to share some level of responsibility, such as when one driver is speeding, and the other suddenly stops.

Even if you bear some responsibility for the crash, California’s pure comparative fault system allows you to file a personal injury claim. For instance, if you’re 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of the compensation. The other party can also pursue compensation based on their share of the blame.

Determining whether a settlement offer is fair when fault is shared can be tricky. This is where an experienced injury lawyer comes in. They can help assess your damages, calculate your percentage of fault, and negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

How Our Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Injury Lawyer Can Help You

Personal injury claims become complicated for several reasons, such as when multiple parties are responsible for the crash. During this time, your main priority after an accident should be focusing on your recovery. While you do that, let our top attorneys handle the financial and legal aspects of your case, including managing your car accident claim or pursuing a car accident lawsuit if needed.

If you choose our law firm as your legal representation, our Los Angeles auto accident attorneys can start on your case right away. Plus, we work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay any attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover the best legal actions for your situation.

This article was written in collaboration with experienced personal injury lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers.

Rear End Collision Lawyer Near Me

Los Angeles
10900 Wilshire Blvd 15th Floor,
Los Angeles, CA 90024
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Los Angeles Rear-End Collision Lawyer