Orlando, FL Rear-End Collision Lawyers
Experienced Attorneys for Rear-End Accidents in Orlando, Florida
The roads of Orlando are filled with a mix of local commuters, out-of-town visitors, and commercial traffic, creating a busy and sometimes chaotic environment. With so much traffic, rear-end collisions occur frequently, and they are usually unexpected. While these accidents may seem minor at first glance, they can lead to serious injuries, significant property damage, and lingering emotional and financial strain.
Rear-end crashes can range in severity from low-speed fender benders to high-impact collisions with life-altering consequences. People who are struck from behind have legal rights, and they may be entitled to compensation. An Orlando car accident attorney from The Doan Law Firm can assist in identifying the cause of the crash, dealing with insurance companies, and pursuing a legal claim when appropriate. We always work to protect our clients' interests and fight for full compensation on their behalf.
How Our Attorneys Can Help After a Rear-End Accident
Legal representation can make a significant difference in cases involving rear-end accidents. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate the circumstances of the crash, collect evidence to support a claim, and protect our client's interests in negotiations with insurers. Some of the key ways we can help include:
- Determining Liability: Florida law generally presumes that a driver who hit another vehicle from behind is at fault, but insurance companies may still dispute these claims. Our lawyers can present clear evidence of negligence, including dashcam footage, witness statements, and police reports.
- Navigating No-Fault Insurance: Florida's personal injury protection (PIP) laws will cover some of the medical costs and property damage expenses related to an accident. We can negotiate with insurers to ensure that our clients receive the full coverage available. If necessary, we can determine whether other forms of compensation may be available.
- Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or delay settlements. Our lawyers can manage communications with insurers and ensure that claims are filed correctly and on time.
Common Effects of Rear-End Collisions
Even though they are one of the most frequent types of motor vehicle accidents, rear-end crashes can have a wide range of consequences. The severity of a collision may depend on factors like how fast a vehicle was traveling, disparities in size between the vehicles involved in a collision, and whether seat belts or safety systems were functioning correctly.
Physical Injuries
- Whiplash: One of the most well-known injuries from rear-end accidents, whiplash occurs when the neck snaps forward and backward abruptly. This can result in neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even long-term mobility issues.
- Back and Spine Injuries: The impact of a rear-end collision can compress the spine or cause disc herniation, leading to chronic pain or neurological issues.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A person's head may strike a headrest or dashboard, resulting in concussions or more serious forms of brain trauma.
- Facial and Dental Injuries: Airbag deployment or sudden jolts can cause facial lacerations, broken noses or facial bones, or dental damage.
- Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains, bruises, and muscle tears are common, especially in the upper body.
Property Damage
- Vehicle Damage: The rear of a vehicle will often sustain damage in a rear-end collision, including a bent frame, misaligned trunk, or electrical system issues.
- Total Loss: In high-speed crashes, a vehicle may be totaled, meaning that the costs of repairs would exceed the vehicle's value.
- Diminished Value: Even after repairs, the resale value of a damaged vehicle may drop significantly.
Emotional and Financial Strain
- Medical Expenses: Hospital visits, physical therapy, medications, and specialist care can become costly.
- Loss of Income: Injuries may prevent a person from returning to work either temporarily or permanently, which can affect household finances.
- Mental Health Effects: Anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and fear of driving may linger long after physical injuries have healed.
Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Orlando
Rear-end collisions typically occur when one vehicle follows another too closely or a driver fails to react in time to a sudden slowdown in traffic. On Orlando's busy roads, the risks of these accidents can be heightened due to contributing factors such as:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or interacting with in-vehicle technology can cause drivers to overlook slowing or stopped traffic ahead.
- Tailgating: Following too closely reduces the time a driver has to react, increasing the chance of a collision.
- Speeding: At higher speeds, vehicles will require longer stopping distances. A driver who is going too fast may be unable to stop before hitting a vehicle ahead. High speeds can also increase the severity of a collision, causing more serious injuries or vehicle damage.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or wet pavement can lead to slippery roads, and longer braking times may be required. Drivers may lose control in these conditions and strike one or more other vehicles.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use can cause a person to have longer reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to collide with another vehicle.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Newer drivers may misjudge distances, or they may react too slowly in stop-and-go traffic conditions.
Contact Our Orlando Rear-End Collision Attorneys
After being struck from behind on an Orlando road or highway, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. At The Doan Law Firm, our legal team is ready to review your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. Reach out today by calling 407-289-0000 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced lawyer.