Were you injured in a rear-end crash in Bell, California? Contact Matadores Accident & Injury Lawyers at (323) 402-1000 for a free consultation. Our Bell rear-end crash lawyers can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Rear-end collisions can happen in seconds, but the injuries may last for weeks, months, or longer. Even a low-speed crash can cause neck pain, back injuries, concussions, and other serious harm. If another driver caused your accident, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim.
Why Choose Matadores Accident & Injury Lawyers for Help After a Rear-End Crash in Bell, CA?
After a rear-end accident, you may be dealing with pain, car repairs, missed work, and calls from the insurance company. Our attorneys can step in, protect your rights, and handle the legal process while you focus on your recovery.
When you hire our firm, you will have a Bell car accident lawyer who understands how to investigate rear-end collisions and fight for full compensation. Matadores Accident & Injury Lawyers has 25 years of combined experience and has recovered over $100 million for injured clients.
Our Bell, CA, legal team can help by:
- Investigating the crash
- Gathering photos, videos, and witness statements
- Reviewing police reports and medical records
- Working with experts when needed
- Handling insurance company calls
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Taking your case to court if necessary
You do not have to face the insurance company alone. Call today to schedule a free consultation with our Bell personal injury attorneys and learn how we can help.
What Causes Rear-End Crashes in Bell, CA?
Rear-end crashes often happen because one driver fails to stop in time. These accidents are common in traffic, at intersections, near schools, in parking lots, and on busy roads throughout Bell and Los Angeles County.
Common causes include:
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Texting while driving
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Brake failure
- Poor weather or road conditions
- Sudden stops in traffic
California law requires drivers to avoid following another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent based on speed, traffic, and roadway conditions. When a driver follows too closely and causes a crash, that driver may be responsible for the harm that follows.
Who Is at Fault for a Rear-End Collision?
Many people assume the rear driver is always at fault. That is often true, but not always. Fault depends on the facts of the crash.
The rear driver may be liable if they were speeding, tailgating, texting, or failing to pay attention. However, the front driver may share fault if they suddenly reversed, stopped unlawfully, drove with broken brake lights, or cut into another vehicle’s lane without enough space.
Other parties may also be responsible. For example, a mechanic may share liability if negligent repair work caused a brake failure that contributed to the crash. A company may be responsible if an employee caused the crash while driving for work.
What Injuries Can Rear-End Accidents Cause?
Rear-end collisions can place sudden force on the body. The impact may throw your head, neck, and spine forward and backward. This movement can cause injuries even when there is little visible damage to the vehicles.
Common rear-end crash injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Herniated discs
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Broken bones
- Knee injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Nerve damage
You should see a doctor after a crash, even if you think your injuries are minor. Medical care can protect your health and create records that connect your injuries to the collision.
How Long Do I Have to File a Rear-End Crash Lawsuit in California?
In most California personal injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. California Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1 applies to injury or death caused by another person’s wrongful act or neglect.
Some cases have much shorter deadlines. For example, a claim involving a government entity may need to be formally presented within six months before a lawsuit can be filed. It is best to speak with a lawyer soon after the crash so that important deadlines are not missed.
What Should I Do After a Rear-End Crash in Bell?
The steps you take after a crash can affect your health and your claim. If you can, move to a safe place and call 911. You should also seek medical care right away.
After a rear-end collision, try to:
- Take photos of the vehicles and the crash scene.
- Get the other driver’s insurance information.
- Ask witnesses for their contact information.
- Keep all medical records and bills.
- Save repair estimates and receipts.
- Avoid posting about the crash online.
- Do not give a recorded statement without legal guidance.
You should also be careful with early settlement offers. The insurance company may offer money before you know the full extent of your injuries. Once you accept a settlement and release your claim, you generally cannot seek additional compensation for the same accident later.
Contact Our Bell Rear-End Crash Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were hurt in a rear-end accident in Bell, CA, you may have options for pursuing compensation from the responsible party. The attorneys at Matadores Accident & Injury Lawyers can investigate your crash, deal with the insurance company, and fight for compensation for your injuries and losses.
Rear-end crash claims can become stressful when insurers dispute fault, question your injuries, or pressure you to settle quickly. We can handle those issues for you while you focus on your medical care and recovery.
Call today to schedule a free consultation with our Bell rear-end crash attorneys.
