Rear-End Accidents
If a rear end collision has left you with serious injuries, you may not feel up to the task of chasing down the responsible party to recover damages. That’s why at Salazar & Kelly Law Group our Kissimmee and Orlando experienced personal injury attorneys do the legwork for you! Make no mistake: a negligent or reckless driver whose actions lead to injuries may be liable for a significant payout.
Who Was at Fault?
When it comes to rear end crashes, the legal presumption is that the driver in the rear is at fault. However, there are circumstances when the driver in front could be held responsible if certain facts can be demonstrated:
- If the front driver made an illegal stop;
- If the front driver stopped suddenly with no warning;
- If the front driver had brake lights that were not in working order.
Typical Rear-enders
Of course, in the majority of situations the rear driver is at fault for the collision in a rear-ender. There are several reasons that these types of crashes occur:
- Distractions: There’s no question that drivers are routinely sidetracked by their phones, their kids, their pets, their GPS, their food and drink, and more.
- Tailgating: Experts advise drivers to follow the “3-second rule” as they determine the distance to follow other vehicles. To calculate that distance, drivers should take note of a stationary object that the car ahead passes, such as a post or sign. It should take a following driver three seconds to reach that same point. If not, there is not enough distance between vehicles to make a stop in the event of an emergency.
- Speeding: Drivers who are going too fast are obviously less likely to have time to avoid a collision.
- Weather issues: Even drivers who are following the 3-second rule may have difficulty avoiding a rear-end collision when weather conditions are challenging. Wet, snowy, icy, and foggy conditions can be perilous.
- Road conditions: Some roads are more challenging to navigate due to gravelly surfaces or potholes, curves, or other problems.
Statute of Limitations
As of 2024, individuals involved in this type of incident have no more than two years to file a personal injury civil suit in an attempt to collect damages to address both property damage and medical issues associated with the accident. It’s even possible to recover monies to cover lost wages, long-term care, and necessary therapies resulting from the incident.
Fighting for You
The dedicated Kissimmee and Orlando personal injury attorneys at Salazar & Kelly Law Group always fight to get the best possible settlement for you. To discuss your situation, contact us right away for a confidential consultation. Remember that 2-year statute of limitations: let’s get started today!
Source:
flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/837
