Rear-End Collisions in Bergen County
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents reported annually in Bergen County, New Jersey. Issues such as distracted driving, texting while driving and high traffic volume all contribute to these car accidents. If you get involved in a rear-end collision, it is important to understand your rights and how to proceed with a legal claim. If you were involved in an accident, make sure to speak with an experienced Bergen County car accident attorney.
Top Causes of Rear-End Car Accidents in Bergen County
A rear-end collision is a car accident that occurs when the front of one car collides with the back of another. It is a frequent type of accident reported in New Jersey, especially in areas that experience congested traffic.
Some of the most common causes of rear-end collisions in Bergen County are:
- Cell phone use and distracted driving
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Driver impairment
- Drowsy driving or falling asleep behind the wheel
- Making unsafe lane changes or cutting other drivers off
- Brake-checking (abrupt stops without reason)
- Brake failure or broken tail lights
Rear-end collisions can occur on the Garden State Parkway, the New Jersey Turnpike, in school zones and residential areas, at intersections, or in parking lots. They can involve two motor vehicles, a car and a large commercial truck, or a car and a motorcycle. If you were involved in an accident with a truck, make sure to speak with a Bergen County truck accident lawyer.
Common Types of Injuries From Rear-End Impacts
Rear-end collisions can be low-speed and low-impact and still cause injuries to vehicle occupants due to the force of the crash. However, some rear-end collisions happen at higher speeds, causing severe collisions and multi-vehicle pileups. Vehicle speed and size can determine the severity of the accident.
Common injuries suffered in rear-end collisions include whiplash and other neck injuries, broken bones, back and spinal cord injuries, concussions and traumatic brain injuries, knee injuries, and injuries related to seat belts and airbags. It is critical to always seek professional medical care after a rear-end collision, even if you feel fine. Some symptoms are delayed and may not appear immediately.
How to Hold Someone Responsible for Your Rear-End Collision in Bergen County
The rear driver in a rear-end car accident case is most often held liable, or legally responsible, due to the fact that drivers in New Jersey have a responsibility to maintain a safe following distance at all times. This distance should be enough to allow the driver to apply the brakes and come to a stop before impact according to traffic, weather and road conditions.
However, some of these cases involve the fault of the front driver, such as if this driver slammed on the brakes without cause or cut the other driver off. Since New Jersey operates under a no-fault car insurance law, many drivers file claims with their own car insurance companies and recover benefits through personal injury protection insurance. If you have serious injuries or right-to-sue insurance, however, you can hold the other driver accountable.
When to Contact a Bergen County Car Accident Lawyer
As a rear-end collision victim in New Jersey, you will be responsible for advocating for your rights and interests. An insurance company (even your own) will not want you to maximize your financial recovery after the crash. You can only trust a personal injury lawyer in Bergen County to protect you during a claim.
Your lawyer can gather evidence of fault after an in-depth investigation of your rear-end collision. You can count on an attorney to connect you to top doctors in your area for appropriate medical care, take over negotiations with an insurance adjuster for an optimal settlement agreement and take your car accident case all the way to trial, if necessary, for a fair outcome.
For more information about a specific rear-end accident case in Bergen County, contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Hasson, P.C., to request a free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers.