Rear-End Collisions

Providence Attorney Assisting Victims of Serious Motor Vehicle Accidents

Rear end collisions are among the most common kinds of motor vehicle collisions in Providence, and usually they are entirely avoidable. Rear end collisions tend to occur more frequently in high traffic areas. Providence is the biggest city in Rhode Island, and it is also the most densely populated. As a result, there are often many drivers on the road, and drivers who are distracted or in a hurry often drive carelessly, causing rear end collisions. Rear end collisions can result in substantial injuries and property damage. If you suffered harm due to a rear end collision, you should meet with a knowledgeable Providence car accident lawyer to develop a plan for seeking compensation from the driver who caused the accident. Attorney David Tapalian has the skills and experience needed to help you prove the full extent of the damages caused by your rear end collision.

Causes of Rear End Collisions

Rear end collisions occur when a driver strikes the rear of the car that he or she is following. Rear end collisions are commonly caused by a driver following the car in front of him or her too closely and lacking the ability to stop in time to avoid the collision. A driver may be distracted by a cell phone or GPS, and they may not notice that the driver ahead of them has stopped. In some cases, a driver may be traveling at too high a speed to stop prior to the impact. Rain and snow can be a contributing factor in rear end collisions as well, since they can cause slippery roadways. Drivers are expected to operate their cars in a safe manner in all circumstances, however, and they should adjust their driving according to the current weather conditions.

Proving Liability Following a Rear End Collision

In most car accident cases, a party alleging negligence bears the burden of proving each element of negligence. The elements of negligence are a duty of care, a breach of the duty, an accident caused by the breach, and harm caused by the accident. In Rhode Island, however, the law presumes that a driver who causes a rear end collision is negligent, and the burden is on the driver to rebut the presumption. Police reports and eyewitness testimony are helpful in establishing the manner in which an accident occurred.

Damages Recoverable in Rear End Collision Cases

Although liability is often not disputed in rear end collision cases, the negligent driver may dispute the extent of the damages caused by the collision. Medical records of your treatment after the accident and records establishing your health prior to the accident can help prove the nature and extent of any injuries that you sustained in the accident. In some cases, it may be necessary to retain an expert to offer an opinion tracing your harm to the accident.

Injuries commonly caused by rear end collisions include concussions, neck strains and sprains, herniated discs, and other back injuries. Rear end collisions can cause significant damage to your vehicle as well. Damages that you may be able to recover include the cost to repair the damage to your car and the cost of any treatment that you underwent for your injuries or will need to undergo in the future. If you missed work due to injuries caused by the accident, you can seek damages for lost earnings as well. You may also be able to recover compensation for the pain and suffering caused by the accident. Attorney Tapalian can assist you in seeking damages for the full extent of the harm that you suffered due to the accident.

Meet With an Attorney Skilled in Handling Rear End Collision Cases

Regardless of where they occur, the majority of rear end collisions are caused by negligent driving. If you were injured due to a rear end collision in Providence, you have the right to pursue compensation from the driver who caused the collision. Attorney David Tapalian understands the impact that a car accident can have on all aspects of your life and will aggressively seek the full amount of damages that you may be able to recover. Contact Attorney Tapalian at 401-552-5000 or through the online form to schedule a free and confidential consultation.