Rear-End Collisions in Seattle
Injured in a rear-end car accident?
If you have recently been the victim of a rear-end crash caused by another's negligent or reckless behavior, you should not be the one to suffer. Whether you were the car in front who was hit or you were the car in the back who unavoidably hit another vehicle due to their own actions, you may be eligible for compensation for any injuries caused. In the United States, there are approximately 2.5 million rear-end car accidents each year, making it the most common vehicular accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has stated that these types of collisions account for almost 30% of all accidents, which is a staggering number. These accidents can be a result of a variety of factors and leave those involved with lifelong injuries.
Common Injuries that Can Occur
The force exerted when colliding with another vehicle can be massive. Being hit from behind by a car traveling at high speeds could result in horrific damage to your spinal cord, head and other important bodily organs. Even a seemingly minor tap by another car can give you whiplash if you are not expecting the hit. Many people do not even realize that whiplash can occur at as low of a speed of 2.5 mph. Unexpected impacts do not allow the driver to brace themselves or prepare, which can cause severe spine damage. The spine can be bent into an "S" shape as a result of the collision, compressing the individual's facet joints and bringing damage to the cartilage.
We have put together a list of some of the most common injuries experienced by rear-ending accident victims. This is not comprehensive but gives a small glimpse of the types of damage that may qualify for restitution:
- Broken bones
- Head trauma, brain injuries & nerve damage
- Joint pain
- Damage to the shoulder or neck
- Soft tissue damage
- Bulging/slipped discs
It may be days or weeks before you realize the full impact for your injuries, which is why it is important that you begin seeking restitution now. Waiting too to pursue compensation could ultimately mean that you do not retain any financial help at all. In the state of Washington, there is a statute of limitations for personal injury cases. Under Washington State Statute RCW 4.16.080, the time frame that people can file injury lawsuits is three years from the date of the incident for the following cases:
"An action for taking, detaining, or injuring personal property, including an action for the specific recovery thereof, or for any other injury to the person or rights of another not hereinafter enumerated"
Having a knowledgeable Seattle personal injury lawyer with you from the moment your case begins, all the way through to the final verdict can be extremely valuable. Attorney J.D. Smith is dedicated to protecting the rights of Seattle residents just like you.
Obtaining the Compensation You Deserve
Taking a look at our past case results will show you that we have successfully garnered hundreds of thousands of dollars for clients in auto collisions. While we at the Law Office of J.D. Smith, PLLC cannot promise anything, our team of accomplished legal advocates is highly skilled at attaining positive settlements for car accident victims.
No matter how complicated you think your case may be, allow us to discuss it with you by calling our office at (206) 537-0106.
