Montebello Rear-End Accident Lawyer

Several things may have already happened to you before you realize you were hit by another vehicle on the road: the tightening of your seatbelt, sudden whiplash, and shortness of breath. When you have been injured in a rear-end car accident, you need an experienced Montebello rear-end accident lawyer to help guide you through the aftermath.

If your accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, a compassionate car accident lawyer in Montebello can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

The team at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on your life. With our experienced legal professionals by your side, you can fight for the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Rear-End Accident

Because of factors like distracted driving, tailgating, and bad weather, rear-end accidents are among the most frequent types of car collisions. In Montebello and across California, these accidents can happen for many different reasons. No matter the cause, if you’re involved in a rear-end accident, it’s important to take immediate action.

1. Ensure Safety First. If you’re able, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Seek Medical Attention. Even if you aren’t aware of any injuries at the moment, it’s important to get medical attention. Injuries like whiplash, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries may not show immediate symptoms but can get worse over time.
3. Document the Accident. Gather all the details you can, including the names and contact information of all the drivers involved, license plate numbers, and insurance information. Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any injuries.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, be cautious when speaking to an insurance adjuster — don’t admit fault.
5. Consult a Rear-End Accident Lawyer. Because rear-end accidents often result in serious injuries, seeking legal guidance is essential. A Montebello personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, we can help you understand your rights, navigate the claims process, and make sure you’re not being taken advantage of by insurance companies.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Accidents

Just as there are many different causes of a rear-end accident, the injuries you might get from one also vary significantly.

Some of the most common injuries sustained in rear-end accidents include:

• Whiplash. A common injury caused by the sudden jolt of the head and neck, resulting in strain to the muscles and ligaments.
• Back and Spinal Injuries. The force of a rear-end collision can cause damage to the vertebrae, discs, and nerves in the spine, leading to long-term pain or permanent disability.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). Even in seemingly minor accidents, the head can be jolted or struck, causing a concussion or more serious brain injuries.
• Neck and Shoulder Injuries. The sudden collision can strain muscles, ligaments, and nerves in the neck and shoulder areas, often leading to chronic pain.
• Herniated Discs. The force of a crash can cause the discs in the spine to rupture or shift, putting pressure on the spinal nerves and causing severe pain or numbness.

If you’ve sustained any of these injuries or other damages in a rear-end accident, the team at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, can help you understand what comes next and the most favorable way to proceed with your claim.

Who Is Liable in a Rear-End Accident?

In California, liability for a rear-end accident is typically straightforward; the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is at fault, as it’s generally assumed they weren’t following at a safe distance. That said, there are times when other elements, like weather, road conditions, or vehicle malfunctions, could contribute to the accident.

California follows comparative negligence laws, which can affect liability. With comparative negligence, even if both drivers share some fault for the accident, each party’s liability can be reduced based on their percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault for not signaling a lane change and the other driver is 80% at fault for following too closely, your settlement or award could be reduced by 20%.

Working with the team at Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, can make sure your case is thoroughly investigated and that liability is clearly determined.

Why Choose Heimanson & Wolf, LLP?

At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, we understand that dealing with what comes after a rear-end accident can be overwhelming and challenging. We’re here to handle the legal aspects, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries.

Our attorneys have experience handling a wide range of accident claims in California, including rear-end collisions, and we know how to investigate the details, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident in Montebello, don’t wait — contact us today so we can discuss your case.

FAQs About Rear-End Car Accident Law in Montebello,CA

Can I Claim Damages If I Was Not Wearing a Seatbelt During the Rear-End Accident?

In California, not wearing a seatbelt can impact your case, as it could be considered contributory negligence, but you can still file a claim and pursue compensation for damages. The court might reduce your award depending on how much your failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to your injuries. Our lawyers can help evaluate how this might affect your case.

How Long Am I Able to File a Claim for a Rear-End in California?

Under California law, you must file a personal injury claim before two years have passed since the accident. However, there may be exceptions, for example, if you’re filing against a government entity or you weren’t aware of your injuries immediately. It’s important to discuss your case with a lawyer from Heimanson & Wolf, LLP as soon as possible to make sure you meet all deadlines.

Will My Insurance Cover the Costs of My Injuries?

Your car insurance may cover some of the costs associated with your injuries, like medical bills and vehicle repairs, but insurance companies tend to make lower offers than what your damages might be worth in full. If you’re injured, working with a lawyer can ensure that you get a fair settlement that fully covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

What Should I Do If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?

If the other driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance coverage, you may be able to recover damages through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage — if you have it. If you don’t have this coverage or the damages are greater than your coverage limits, you may still be able to pursue compensation by filing a claim against the other driver directly.

Contact Heimanson & Wolf, LLP Today

If you or someone you know has faced injuries in a rear-end accident in Montebello, you don’t have to face what comes next alone. At Heimanson & Wolf, LLP, we’re ready to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

Together, we can review your case, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.