Rear-End Car Accidents in Beckley

Drivers are responsible for maintaining safe distances and driving attentively. When drivers fail to do so, rear-end car accidents in Beckley can occur. For those who have been involved in these crashes, recovering a fair settlement is critical. If you or a loved one were rear-ended, an experienced car accident attorney can help. Contact us now to learn more about how we can assist with your accident claim.

What Is a Rear-End Accident?

A rear-end collision happens when the front of one vehicle collides with the back of another. Rear-end crashes are one of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents. There are several different causes of rear-end collisions, like certain driving behaviors such as distracted driving, drunk driving, tailgating, speeding, and brake-checking.

Besides vehicle damage, a Beckley, WV rear-end crash can cause a number of different injuries. Soft tissue injuries, whiplash, bruises, and facial injuries are among the most common.

Filing a Car Accident Claim in Beckley

After a rear-end crash, filing a car accident claim is essential to recovering necessary compensation. Those involved in a crash will want to take action as soon as a collision happens to help secure their interests and rights to compensation. After a rear-end accident, individuals in Beckley will want to:

• Immediately report the accident to the appropriate authorities.
• Seek prompt medical attention.
• Exchange information with others involved in the accident and any eyewitnesses.
• Take photos and videos of the scene and damages, if possible.
• Gather any evidence of damages and injuries like photos, bills, receipts, and records.
• Contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

Generally, the at-fault party pays the cost of damages after a car accident. Therefore, insurance claims should be made with the responsible party’s insurance, and a lawyer can assist with claim filing.

Additionally, a person has just two years to file a lawsuit for a rear-end car accident in this state. While there are some exceptions, prompt action is critical to securing compensation. An experienced attorney can help to determine the filing deadline and make a timely claim filing.

Damages Available After Rear-End Crash

Beckley rear-end car accidents can cause injuries and property damage. Compensatory damages, including actual financial losses and non-financial losses resulting from the crash, may be available, with some examples including medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional distress. In cases where the at-fault party acted in an egregious manner, punitive damages may be available, however this is rare.

In general, there is no cap on the amount of compensatory damages in West Virginia. However, there is a cap of $500,000 on non-economic damages for wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. Punitive damages are also capped.

Finally, a person may still recover even if he or she is partially to blame for the accident. Under the modified comparative negligence rule, a person can still recover, as long as the percentage of fault is 49 percent or less. Any damage award will be reduced by the percentage of blame.

Call a Beckley Attorney for Assistance After a Rear-End Vehicle Crash

Rear-end car accidents in Beckley are unfortunate occurrences, often leaving those involved with vehicle damage and injuries. If you or a loved one were injured in a collision, recovering full compensation is essential. Seeking assistance from an experienced attorney can provide valuable support and peace of mind during this process.

At Jan Dils, the largest female-founded law firm in the nation, we recognize how critical fair compensation can be for those injured in a car accident. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with your potential claim.