Oklahoma City Read-End Accident Attorney

Rear-end accidents are among the most common types of car crashes. While they may sometimes seem minor, these accidents can lead to serious injuries and lasting complications, especially in high-speed collisions. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident, Fulmer Sill is here to help you seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

Our Oklahoma City rear-end accident attorneys have a track record of success in car accident cases. We work hard to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure fair settlements or verdicts for our clients.

Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end accidents often happen when a driver fails to stop in time, but there are many factors that can contribute to these collisions, including:

• Distracted Driving: One of the most common causes, as drivers often fail to notice traffic slowing ahead while they are texting, talking, or otherwise distracted.
• Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely leaves little room to stop safely in an emergency.
• Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit often lack sufficient time to react to sudden stops or slow traffic.
• Drunk Driving: Intoxicated drivers have slower reaction times, making it harder to avoid a collision.
• Weather Conditions: Poor weather, such as rain or snow, can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances, making it easier for drivers to rear-end others.

Injuries from Rear-End Accidents

Even at low speeds, rear-end accidents can cause serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash: A common injury where the neck is jolted back and forth violently, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Spinal Injuries: Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and other spinal injuries can occur, especially if the impact is severe.
• Brain Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can result from the head striking the steering wheel, dashboard, or headrest.
• Back Injuries: The force of a rear-end collision can cause strain, sprains, or more severe back injuries that require long-term care.
• Broken Bones: Arms, wrists, and ribs are often injured as victims brace themselves against the impact.

Determining Liability in Rear-End Accidents

In most rear-end collisions, the driver who hits the vehicle in front is at fault. Oklahoma law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance, and failure to do so is typically considered negligence. However, there are situations where fault may be shared or disputed, such as:

• Sudden Stops: If the vehicle in front stops suddenly or unexpectedly, the rear driver may claim that the stop was unreasonable.
• Multiple Vehicle Pile-Ups: In multi-vehicle rear-end accidents, determining fault can be complex, as several drivers may have contributed to the crash.

At Fulmer Sill, our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to determine fault in rear-end collisions. We work with experts in accident reconstruction, gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, and review police reports to build a strong case on your behalf.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries, as well as diminished earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs to your vehicle or its replacement if it was totaled in the accident.

How Fulmer Sill Can Help with Your Rear-End Accident Claim

At Fulmer Sill, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a car accident. Our experienced Oklahoma City rear-end accident attorneys are here to guide you through the process. Here’s how we can help:

• Free Consultations: We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
• No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay us unless we recover compensation for you.
• Comprehensive Case Preparation: We handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence and dealing with insurance companies to taking your case to trial if necessary.

Rear-End Accident FAQ

What Should I Do After a Rear-End Accident?

Immediately after a rear-end accident, prioritize your safety and health:

• Call 911: Report the accident to authorities to ensure a police report is filed.
• Seek Medical Care: Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like whiplash) may not be immediately apparent.
• Document the Scene: Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
• Contact an Attorney: Speaking with an attorney early can protect your rights and ensure your claim is handled properly.

Can I File a Claim if I’m Partially at Fault?

Yes, under Oklahoma’s comparative negligence laws, you may still be able to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

In Oklahoma, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations, and failing to file within this timeframe could prevent you from recovering compensation.

Call (405) 510-0077 for a FREE Consultation

Fulmer Sill is a nationally recognized trial practice known for taking a different approach to personal injury litigation. Backed by a team of talented attorneys and decades of experience, we’re ready to discuss your rear-end accident and how we can help you recover compensation.