Long Island Rear-End Collision Lawyer
When most people think of rear-end collisions, they think of minor auto accidents that occur at stop signs or red lights. They think of small taps on the bumper that cause no injuries or vehicle damage. While this is certainly true of some rear-end accidents, others cause serious and life-altering injuries. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 2,000 people died in rear-end crashes in the U.S. in 2012.If you suffered injuries in a rear-end collision, let a dedicated car accident lawyer advise you about your legal options. A Long Island rear-end collision lawyer could help you pursue the compensation you deserve and hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions.
Elements of a Rear-End Collision
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle makes contact with the rear of another vehicle. These crashes occur on both surface streets and highways. Because surface street collisions are typically much slower speed crashes, they are sometimes overlooked as minor incidents. However, highway rear-end collisions can occur at much higher speeds and lead to more catastrophic injuries. Regardless of speed, you should always go to the doctor after an accident to treat or rule out any injuries.Common Types of Injuries
Neck injuries are the most common complaints after a rear-end collision. Whiplash and other similar injuries often become chronic, debilitating health concerns that require ongoing treatment. Other common reasons accident victims seek medical care include:- Spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Facial lacerations
- Leg, ankle, and knee injuries
Whiplash
Whiplash is a serious medical issue, and requires medical treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent further problems. Symptoms of whiplash or another neck injury include:- Stiff neck
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Pain in the back, jaw, shoulder, and/or arm
- Fatigue
- Ringing in the ears
- Depression, anxiety and other similar symptoms
Steps to Take if Injured
Your first concern after a rear-end collision is your health and wellbeing. Getting the medical care you need is paramount; however, if you are able, you should collect as much information as possible while on the scene of the accident. If your injuries prohibit you from doing so, you can obtain the police report which may have all the information you need, e.g., any citations issued, what police believe to be the cause, contact information, etc.Potential Causes of Rear-End Wrecks in Long Island
A number of factors contribute to the high number of rear-end collisions, but some of the most common include:- Disobeying traffic laws: Speeding, tailgating, drinking while intoxicated, using a cell phone
- Rain, ice, and other weather
- Distracted driving, like texting or talking on a cell phone
Determining Fault
New York is a no-fault state, so you must recover compensation from your own insurance first. However, if you meet the state’s minimum threshold for “serious” injuries or if your damages exceed your PIP benefits, you can step outside of the no-fault system and hold the other party responsible for compensation above and beyond that paid by your insurer. In order to qualify as “seriously” injured, you must suffer one or more of the following types of injuries:- Broken bones
- Significant disfigurement
- Lost use of a limb or other body part
- Significant limitation of a body function or system
- Full disability for a minimum of 90 days
- Hospitalization
- Medical care
- Future medical needs
- Lost wages and lost future income
- Pain and suffering
