What is Subrogation & How It Affects Car Accident Settlements
Posted in: Car Accidents
A rear-end collision happens when one vehicle strikes the back of another. These accidents are commonly caused by driver negligence, tailgating, or failure to react to sudden traffic changes. Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can result in significant injuries, including whiplash and spinal damage.
As any driver in Central Ohio can tell you, rear-end collisions are frequent on Columbus highways such as I-270, I-71, and I-70, where congestion and high-speed travel create hazardous conditions. Similarly, busy streets like High Street, Morse Road, and Broad Street see numerous rear-end accidents, particularly during peak traffic hours. Heavy traffic, frequent stoplights, and distracted driving make these areas high-risk for rear-end collisions, leaving many Columbus residents with the consequences of another driver’s carelessness.=
At KKR, our Columbus auto accident lawyers are highly experienced in rear-end vehicle collisions and dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable while fighting for the compensation you deserve. Contact KNR today for a free consultation.
Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent types of accidents in Franklin County. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Franklin County consistently reports thousands of rear-end collisions yearly. High-traffic areas like Downtown Columbus, Easton Town Center, and major highways are hotspots for these accidents, often caused by congested traffic and driver inattention.
More Columbus Car Accident Stats
Rear-end collisions can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from mild discomfort to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:
Read What to Do After a Columbus Car Accident
After a rear-end collision in Columbus, your legal options typically begin with filing an insurance claim against the at-fault driver. While most claims are resolved through negotiations, insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by disputing liability or downplaying your injuries.
If a fair car accident settlement cannot be reached, you may need to file a Columbus lawsuit to pursue the compensation you deserve. A lawsuit allows you to present compelling evidence, such as accident reports, witness testimony, and medical records, to prove the other driver’s negligence.
Read our Guide to Personal Injury Lawsuits in Columbus, OH
In most cases, the driver of the rear vehicle is presumed to be at fault for a rear-end collision. Ohio law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to stop if traffic slows suddenly. Common causes of rear-end collisions include distracted driving, speeding, or following too closely.
However, liability may not always rest entirely with the rear driver. Exceptions can occur:
To prove fault, you need to demonstrate that the other driver acted negligently and that their actions directly caused the accident. Evidence used to establish fault may include:
By working with a skilled attorney, you can gather and present the necessary evidence to hold the at-fault driver accountable and strengthen your claim.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a rear-end collision in Columbus, you may be entitled to recover compensation for all the financial losses connected to your accident. Whether through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, an experienced attorney can help recover compensation for:
Each case is unique, and calculating the full extent of your losses requires a thorough evaluation. Working with KNR ensures that all your damages are accounted for and you can secure the compensation you need.
While rear-end accidents might seem straightforward, insurance companies often work hard to minimize payouts. They may argue that your injuries aren’t severe, suggest you share the blame, or present a lowball settlement offer that doesn’t cover your full losses. This is where a skilled attorney becomes essential.
A lawyer will focus on proving fault, gathering evidence like traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements to demonstrate that the other driver’s negligence caused the collision. They will handle negotiations with insurers, fighting back against tactics designed to undervalue your claim.
By working to maximize your recovery, a lawyer ensures all current and future expenses, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering, are included in your compensation. If negotiations don’t lead to a fair outcome, an attorney can file a lawsuit, showing the insurer you’re serious about getting justice.
Rear-end collision claims can become complicated due to Ohio’s comparative negligence rule, which reduces compensation by your percentage of fault if you share any liability. Insurers may also dispute the severity of injuries like whiplash, which can be difficult to quantify. Multi-vehicle accidents on high-traffic Columbus roads can add further complexity to determining liability. Additionally, injuries such as whiplash or concussions may not manifest immediately, making prompt medical care and thorough documentation essential for your claim.
Kisling, Nestico & Redick represents clients in Columbus and Franklin, Delaware, Pickaway, Fairfield, and Licking counties.
Seeking medical care and documenting your injuries is crucial after a rear-end accident, even if you feel fine initially. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time. Medical records serve as critical evidence to link your injuries to the accident, strengthening your compensation claim.
Without proper documentation, insurance companies may downplay your injuries or argue they were not caused by the collision, potentially reducing your settlement.
The timeline depends on your case’s complexity, the injuries’ severity, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate. Straightforward cases might settle in a few months, while disputes or lawsuits can take a year or more.
Even in clear-cut cases, insurers may diminish your claim’s value by disputing injury severity or suggesting you share some blame. A lawyer ensures you receive fair compensation and handles negotiations on your behalf.
Not without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often make low initial offers to save money and discourage getting a lawyer. A lawyer can review the offer to ensure it covers all your current and future expenses, helping you avoid settling for less than you deserve.
If you were injured in a rear-end crash in Columbus, taking legal action can help you recover the compensation you need. From medical expenses and lost wages to addressing pain and suffering, KNR is here to help.
At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our Columbus attorneys are committed to guiding you. We’ll evaluate your case, determine the best action, and work tirelessly to maximize compensation. Contact KNR today at (614) 487-8669 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients in Columbus, Franklin County, and the surrounding areas.
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