Imagine you’re driving along, just going about your day, when suddenly, a car hits yours from behind. Your heart starts racing as you try to make sense of what happened. Right after, you wonder, Whose insurance do you call? Finding the answer might not be easy.
Every year, over six million car accidents happen in the U.S., and rear-end crashes are a big part of that. When someone hits another car from behind, usually, the one who hit is to blame. So, their insurance should pay for the damage and any injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident, accounting for nearly 30% of all crashes.
- The driver who hits the car in front is usually considered at fault for a rear-end collision.
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for covering damages and injury claims.
- It’s important to file an accident report and gather evidence at the scene to support your insurance claim.
- Seeking medical attention, even for minor injuries, is crucial to document your case.
Understanding Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions happen a lot on our roads. It’s important to know why they happen. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says these accidents make up about 30 percent of all traffic crashes yearly. Knowing the causes can help drivers prevent them and deal with them better.
Most Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Most rear-end crashes are caused by driver mistakes. This is true for 94 percent of the reasons behind these crashes. Common mistakes include:
- Following too closely or tailgating behind the lead motorist
- Speeding, which cuts down on reaction time and stopping distance
- Distracted driving, like texting, using gadgets, or eating while driving
- Drunk driving or driving under the influence of substances
- Fatigue, which makes it hard to react fast and safely
External Factors Contributing to Rear-End Collisions
Driver mistakes are the main cause, but other things can also lead to rear-end accidents. These include:
- Mechanical failure of the vehicle, like brake problems or tire blowouts
- Bad weather conditions, like rain, snow, or fog, that make it hard to see and stay on the road
- Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, debris, or construction zones
Even with these issues, drivers should be careful and try to avoid a crash. It’s the driver’s job to drive safely and avoid accidents, no matter what’s happening outside.
Steps to Take After Being Rear-Ended
Being in a rear-end collision can be very stressful. It’s important to stay calm and follow the right steps. First, make sure you and your passengers are safe by pulling over to the side of the road.
Securing Evidence at the Scene
When it’s safe, start documenting the accident scene. Take clear photos of the cars, the damage, and the area around them. These photos are key to showing what happened. Also, swap insurance and contact info with the other driver. Try to get names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt, get medical help right away. Some injuries, like whiplash, might not show up right away. Getting checked out quickly helps find any hidden problems and makes sure you get the right care. Keep track of all your medical bills, including any follow-up visits or treatments.
What you do after a rear-end accident is very important. It helps you get compensation and protect your rights. By gathering evidence, swapping info, and getting medical help, you’re looking out for yourself and getting ready for any legal or insurance steps ahead.
If Someone Rear-Ends You Whose Insurance Do You Call
If you’ve been hit from behind in Arizona, know who to call for insurance. Arizona is an at-fault state. So, the driver who caused the crash will usually handle the claims.
But, even if it wasn’t your fault, tell your insurance about it. They need to know to cover your damages if the other driver is to blame. They also offer benefits like medical help, towing, rental cars, and fixing your car – no matter who was at fault.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Liability Coverage | Covers damages and injuries caused to the other driver if you are found at-fault. |
| Non-Liability Coverage | Covers damages to your own vehicle and any medical expenses, regardless of fault. |
| Benefits of Filing a Claim | Provides access to essential services like towing, rental cars, and vehicle repairs. |
Tell your insurance right away to protect your rights and get all your policy benefits. This is key after a rear-end crash, even if you didn’t cause it.
“Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be tricky, but it’s important to be proactive and advocate for your rights. Your own insurance provider can be a valuable ally in the process.”
Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company
If someone hits your car, you can file a claim with their insurance. You’ll want to get money for your injuries and car damage. But, the insurance might not offer a fair deal right away. That’s when you need good negotiation skills and a lawyer’s help.
Negotiating a Settlement
To negotiate with the insurance, you must have good evidence. This includes police reports, medical bills, repair quotes, and proof of lost wages. You should also be ready to explain why you think you should get paid a certain amount.
The insurance might offer less than you think you deserve. It’s okay to ask for more. The aim is to get back what you lost and get paid for your injuries.
The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer
Getting a personal injury lawyer can really help you get what you deserve. They know how to value claims, collect evidence, and talk to insurance companies. They do all the work for you, making sure you don’t mess up your case.
Lawyers work for a share of your settlement, not upfront. This means you can go after your claim without worrying about legal costs.
The insurance company wants to pay less, not give you a fair deal. With a lawyer, you can stand up for yourself and get what you’re owed.
Conclusion
After a rear-end collision, act fast to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Tell your insurance company right away, collect important evidence, get medical help, and be careful with the other driver’s insurance.
It’s very important to act quickly. Not reporting the accident or giving timely info can lead to big legal problems. This could stop you from getting damages. By protecting your rights, you can focus on getting better and not worry about money.
Even if you think you were partly to blame, there might be reasons or laws that clear you of fault. A skilled personal injury lawyer can help you with the claims process. They can make sure you have a good chance of getting a good result. Don’t wait to get expert advice to protect your rights and money.
FAQ
If someone rear-ends you, whose insurance do you call?
Always tell your own insurance company if you get rear-ended, even if it wasn’t your fault. They will help cover the costs. They might pay for medical bills, towing, rental cars, and fixing your car, even if you weren’t at fault.
What are the most common causes of rear-end accidents?
Most rear-end crashes happen because of driver mistakes. This includes not leaving enough space, speeding, not paying attention, driving while drunk, or feeling very tired. Sometimes, bad weather or car problems can also cause accidents. But drivers should always try to avoid these problems.
What should you do if you are rear-ended?
If you’re rear-ended, move to a safe spot first. Then, call 911 for help. Take pictures and videos of what happened. And, get medical help right away.
Also, make sure to get the other driver’s details like their name, address, and insurance info.
Can you pursue a claim with the other driver’s insurance company?
Yes, you can file a claim with the other driver’s insurance for your injuries and damage. But, they might not offer a fair deal right away. A lawyer can help you figure out your claim’s value, gather evidence, and talk to the insurance company for you.