Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, often leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress. At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a collision can be. 
With decades of experience advocating for injured clients across Washington, our team provides personalized, compassionate legal guidance tailored to each client’s unique circumstances. From navigating complex insurance claims to pursuing full compensation, we work to protect your rights and secure the justice you deserve.
When these preventable accidents occur, you deserve an advocate who will prioritize your recovery and hold the at-fault party accountable. Let our skilled attorneys handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions often happen when drivers fail to maintain a safe following distance or become distracted. Common factors include texting while driving, speeding, and aggressive driving. Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or icy roads, can also reduce traction, making it difficult to stop quickly.
In Washington, impaired driving remains another leading cause of these accidents. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
When one driver’s negligence causes harm, the injured party has the right to seek compensation for their damages.
Injuries Common in Rear-End Collisions
Injuries from rear-end accidents can range from minor to severe, with the most common including:
- Whiplash. Neck strain caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion during impact.
- Back injuries. Herniated discs, sprains, or fractures often result from the force of the crash.
- Head trauma. Concussions or other brain injuries can occur if the head strikes the steering wheel or headrest.
- Soft tissue injuries. Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments is a common result of rear-end accidents.
Even minor injuries can worsen over time, so seeking immediate medical attention is critical.
Dealing with insurance companies after a rear-end collision can be overwhelming. Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A rear-end collision car accident lawyer negotiates directly with insurance adjusters, ensuring they uphold their obligations and offer a fair settlement.
If the insurer refuses to provide adequate compensation, your rear-end collision car accident attorney can escalate the matter through litigation, advocating for your rights in court if necessary.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
After a rear-end collision, pursuing compensation is a critical step toward recovering from the financial and emotional toll of the accident. Victims are entitled to damages that address the collision’s immediate and long-term effects. The most straightforward type of compensation covers medical expenses, including emergency care received immediately after the accident, ongoing treatments like physical therapy, and even anticipated future medical costs for long-term injuries or permanent disabilities.
In addition to medical costs, lost wages are a significant consideration. If the injuries sustained in the collision prevent a victim from returning to work or reduce their ability to earn a living, they may be eligible to recover these losses. Compensation can also account for property damage, covering repairs or replacement of the victim’s vehicle and other belongings damaged in the crash.
Equally important but less tangible are noneconomic damages. These address the pain and suffering experienced by the victim, including the emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath. For instance, injuries that diminish the victim’s quality of life, limit their mobility, or prevent them from enjoying hobbies and activities can be included in the compensation calculation.
Proving Damages
In Washington, securing these damages requires detailed documentation and, often, the support of expert testimony. Medical records, pay stubs, repair estimates, and statements from healthcare providers or accident reconstruction experts can be essential in building a strong case.
Working with an experienced rear-end collision car accident lawyer in Washington ensures no aspect of your claim is overlooked, increasing the likelihood of achieving a fair and comprehensive settlement. By thoroughly evaluating the accident’s impact on your life, your car accident attorney can help secure the necessary resources to move forward.
Determining Liability
Liability in rear-end collisions is often straightforward, with the rear driver typically presumed to be at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance. Washington State law requires drivers to adjust for traffic, road, and weather conditions, emphasizing the responsibility to operate vehicles safely.
However, certain circumstances may shift liability. For instance, if the driver in front made an abrupt stop without warning, failed to signal a turn, or had malfunctioning brake lights, they may share responsibility for the collision.
Washington follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be divided between parties. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your assigned responsibility.
For example, if you are 20% at fault, your damages award will be reduced by that amount. Understanding how comparative negligence may apply to your case is essential for determining the potential value of your claim.
At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we thoroughly analyze the circumstances of your accident to establish liability. Our Washington rear-end collision car accident attorney is skilled at countering unfair fault assignments by insurance companies and ensuring that your right to compensation is fully protected.
Why Timeliness Matters
In Washington, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, evidence can deteriorate over time, and witnesses may become harder to contact. Acting promptly can make a significant difference in the strength of your case.
By contacting Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner early, you can access experienced legal counsel who will immediately begin working to protect your interests.
Why Choose Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner?
At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, we understand the challenges victims face after a rear-end collision. Our compassionate, client-first approach ensures you feel supported throughout the legal process. With decades of experience handling car accident cases in Washington, our team knows how to hold negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable.
We offer personalized strategies tailored to your case and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us help you move forward confidently.
