« All FAQ About Rear-End Collisions

What if I was rear-ended but I was also partially at fault?

If you have been rear-ended in a car accident, it can be a traumatic experience that can cause significant physical, emotional, and financial damage. It can be even more stressful if you were partially at fault for the accident. You may be wondering what your legal options are in this situation. Here is what you need to know.

Contributory Negligence

In some states, if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover any compensation for your injuries. This is known as the contributory negligence rule. However, most states follow a comparative negligence rule, which means that you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. The amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Determining Fault

Determining who is at fault in a car accident can be a complex process. In some cases, both drivers may be partially at fault. To determine fault, the police will conduct an investigation and gather evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and photographs. It is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you gather evidence and build a strong case.

What You Should Do

If you have been rear-ended but were also partially at fault, there are some steps you should take to protect your legal rights:

  • Seek medical attention: Your health and well-being are the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional to make sure there are no hidden injuries.
  • Gather evidence: Take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicles, any injuries, and the surrounding area. Get the contact information of any witnesses and exchange information with the other driver. Don’t admit fault at the scene.
  • Consult with an attorney: Before you speak to an insurance company, consult with a car accident attorney who handles rear end crashes. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal system, and work to obtain fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

If you have been rear-ended but were also partially at fault, contact The Ruth Law Team to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking with the insurance companies. Our team has decades of experience helping clients who have been injured in car accidents, and we can work to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (888) 783-8378 to schedule a free consultation.

You can also visit us by appointment at one of our Florida Law Offices, Minnesota Law Offices, or Georgia Law Offices.

Please note that the answers for each question may vary depending on the specific facts of your case, and it is always best to consult with an attorney to get more accurate information. Also, this is general information and not legal advice.

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