Whether you were stopped at a red light, slowing for traffic, or caught off-guard by a reckless driver, being rear-ended can leave you with serious injuries, huge medical bills, and lost wages from missed work. On top of that, you now have to deal with the insurance companies and all the paperwork, questions and deadlines for a motor vehicle accident. Rear-end collisions are the third most common accident in Pennsylvania.
At Munley Law, our Scranton car accident lawyers have the experience to get you through this. We understand how devastating a rear-end accident can be for you and your loved ones. We help injured accident victims get the compensation they deserve. Our Scranton law firm offers a free consultation so you can discuss your case with an expert personal injury lawyer with no upfront costs. Call us for a free case evaluation if you’re wondering whether you need a lawyer after a car crash,
Causes of Rear-End Crashes in Scranton
Rear-end collisions can happen for various reasons, and understanding the cause of any driving accident is vital when proving fault in an accident case. Some of the most common causes of rear-end crashes in Northeastern Pennsylvania include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to collide with the vehicle in front of them.
- Tailgating: Following too closely doesn’t leave enough room to stop if the car ahead brakes suddenly, leading to rear-end accidents.
- Speeding: When a driver is traveling too fast, they may not have enough time to slow down, especially during sudden traffic stops.
- Weather conditions: Rain, snow, and ice can make roads slippery, reducing traction and making it harder for drivers to stop in time.
- Drunk driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs often have slower reaction times, increasing the likelihood of a rear-end collision.
- Mechanical failures: Brake failure or other mechanical problems can cause a vehicle to crash into the car ahead.
- Uninsured motorists: In some cases, drivers involved in rear-end collisions may not have insurance, complicating the process of filing an insurance claim.
Common Rear-End Car Accident Injuries in Scranton
Even low-speed rear-end crashes can result in severe injuries, leaving victims with long-lasting physical and emotional pain. Some of the most common injuries seen in rear-end accidents around Lackawanna County include:
- Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden jolt of the head during impact. This injury can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
- Traumatic brain injuries: A concussion or other head trauma can occur if the driver or passengers hit their heads during the collision.
- Back and spinal cord injuries: Rear-end crashes often lead to back problems, such as herniated discs or, in severe cases, paralysis.
- Broken bones: Arms, wrists, and ribs are especially vulnerable in rear-end accidents.
- Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can result in significant pain and require physical therapy to heal.
- Emotional trauma: The stress and anxiety of being involved in a car accident can lead to pain and suffering, affecting your mental health and well-being.
It’s important to seek medical care immediately after a rear-end collision, even if you don’t feel injured right away. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not present symptoms until hours or days after the crash. Be sure to document all of your injuries and symptoms following your crash.
How Can a Scranton Car Accident Lawyer Help?
If you’ve been rear-ended in Scranton, hiring a personal injury attorney can make a big difference in your personal injury case. A skilled Scranton car accident lawyer will help you in the following ways:
- Proving fault: Establishing liability in a rear-end accident is often straightforward, but complications can arise in any car accident case. Your attorney will gather necessary evidence, such as the police report, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, to prove the other driver was at fault.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A car accident attorney will handle the negotiations, ensuring you receive the full amount you’re entitled to for your injuries and damages.
- Maximizing compensation: Your lawyer will evaluate all potential damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care costs, to secure the maximum compensation for your claim.
- Handling the legal process: From filing your injury claim to meeting the statute of limitations deadlines, your attorney will guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
At Munley Law, our Scranton car accident attorneys have years of experience fighting for victims of rear-end collisions. We are committed to getting justice for our clients and will be with you every step of the way.
Do I Need a Lawyer if I’ve Been Rear-Ended?
While it may be tempting to handle your accident claim on your own, hiring a Scranton auto accident lawyer is often in your best interest—especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries or face significant medical bills. Without a lawyer, you may risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages or future expenses.
An experienced attorney knows how to deal with insurance companies and can build a strong case on your behalf. If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, such as a traumatic brain injury, or lost a loved one in a wrongful death accident, it’s especially important to have a legal advocate on your side.
How Much Is My Rear-End Car Accident Injury Claim Worth?
The value of your rear-end car accident claim will depend on several factors, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes not only your current medical bills but also any future treatments, surgeries, or therapies you may need.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income or diminished earning capacity.
- Property damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle will be included in your settlement.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact the accident has had on your quality of life.
- Future care needs: If your injuries are long-term or permanent, your settlement should account for the ongoing cost of medical care and assistance.
It’s important to work with an experienced Scranton car accident attorney who can accurately calculate the full value of your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Scranton Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been rear-ended in Scranton, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At Munley Law, we have a proven track record of securing favorable verdicts and settlements for accident victims in Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and throughout Pennsylvania. We offer a free case evaluation to review your situation and determine your best options moving forward.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
227 Penn Ave.
Scranton, PA 18503
(570)865-4699