I Got Rear Ended Now What?

Getting hit from behind can cause serious injuries and saddle you with crippling medical bills. We understand the traumatic experience of getting in such an accident. Fortunately, you don’t need to go through this alone. Speak with a trusted rear-end accident lawyer with The Ruth Law Team today and we will help you through this difficult time.

Getting hit from behind in a rear-end accident can be far more dangerous than other types of crashes. If a negligent driver hits you from behind, your body will immediately be whipped forward causing the potential for injuries even without being hit with much force. With more than 40 years of experience, our rear-end accident lawyers are ready to fight tirelessly for you and your right to obtain the compensation you deserve to help with your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. 

If you would like to learn more about how the rear-end accident lawyers with The Ruth Law Team can help you in your time of need, call (888) 783-8378 or schedule a free case evaluation and receive the expert legal advice you need. 

Remember, you don’t pay anything unless we win. 

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See What Our Clients Are Saying

We talked to Amy Catledge after the accident. We gave The Ruth Law Team the go-ahead to represent us. The car accident was in Nov. 2022. A settlement was reached in Jan. 2023 which was earlier than I thought it would be. Patti Olson worked with us and helped us go through some very trying times. It should be noted - Amy was very honest and kept all her promises. Thank you for all your help.

 
Lois H.
Punta Gorda

My wife and I were very satisfied with Ruth Law Firm and their handling of our lawsuit regarding my motorcycle accident. They were always courteous and communicated with us in a timely manner. We were satisfied with the final settlement and would not hesitate to use their services in the future.

 
Lee M.
St. Petersburg

They are the best car accident attorneys. Call them first! Will def spread the word.

 
Lilly M.

Yes, I made a good decision to hire The Ruth Law Team. They handled my accident situation and my case fast and with a good outcome. I'm glad and also recommend their firm. Thanks to their knowledge my case was solved favorably to my needs.

 
Myriam
St. Petersburg

The Ruth Law Team was there for me from the day of my accident to the very end. The day after my accident they sent an investigator to my home to get the details of the accident. Which was amazing because I was in so much pain there is no way I could have gone to their office. They fought for me every step of the way and I am eternally grateful. They literally had to do so much work on my behalf. I can't thank them enough for turning a very traumatic event in my life into a supportive and nurturing experience. Nicole was my go to and she was phenomenal. She checked on me regularly and kept me up to date on the case. Thank you!

 
Stephanie J.

The Ruth Law Team helped me through a personal injury claim. They were very professional, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Anyone looking for an honest firm to aid them in their time of need, I would feel positive to recommend they come to Ruth Law. My paralegal was Nicole and she is awesome!

 
Jimmy N.

Professional, answered any questions I had and were to the point. Great and easy to work with.

 
Jelena B.
St. Petersburg

I am very impressed how the Ruth Law team handled my motor vehicle accident. Eric Roslansky was a great lawyer who showed compassion for my injuries and well being. Always there to answer any concerns or questions I had along the way. The office staff very friendly and courteous. Would recommend them to others.

 
Migdalia R.

Every time I have spoken with the staff at The Ruth Law Team, they have been very cordial and professional. They provided me with the necessary information to make the best decision for me and my family. I definitely recommend The Ruth Law Team of attorneys for auto accident help.

 
James H.
St. Petersburg

What To Do If Rear Ended

Being rear-ended is one of those jarring experiences that can leave you feeling shaken. One moment you’re stopped at a red light or slowing down in traffic, and the next, you’re jolted forward by an unexpected impact. In those first confusing moments after a rear-end collision, your mind may be racing with questions: “Am I hurt? Is my car damaged? What happens next?”

We understand that this overwhelming situation can feel paralyzing, but the steps you take immediately following the crash can significantly impact your health, your financial recovery, and your legal rights. While you may feel tempted to simply exchange insurance information and drive away, taking the proper precautions now can save you from serious complications down the road.

Here’s what you should do immediately after being rear-ended:

  • Ensure Everyone’s Safety First – Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone feels pain, dizziness, or discomfort, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel “fine,” remember that adrenaline can mask injuries like whiplash or concussions that may not surface for hours or days.
  • Move to Safety When Possible – If your vehicle is drivable and you’re blocking traffic, carefully move to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent additional accidents.
  • Call the Police – Even for seemingly minor fender-benders, having an official police report creates an important record of the incident. This documentation often becomes crucial when dealing with insurance companies or potential legal claims.
  • Document Everything – Take photos of all vehicles involved, the accident scene, any visible injuries, and road conditions. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance information, license plate, and driver’s license number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information too.
  • Seek Medical Attention – Many rear-end collision injuries, particularly soft tissue injuries, don’t show symptoms immediately. Getting checked by a healthcare professional creates a medical record and ensures your well-being.
  • Contact an Attorney – We recommend consulting with a car accident attorney who handles rear-end accidents before making statements to the insurance companies. The insurance company is not your friend, and seemingly innocent comments could jeopardize your case later on. 
  • Contact Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance carrier.  Your attorney can help you with this and will handle all communication with the insurance companies involved. Your job will be to . be honest about what happened with your attorney so they can properly convey important details while protecting your rights.
  • Keep Detailed Records – Write down your account of the accident while it’s fresh in your memory. Save all medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence related to the incident.

Remember, you didn’t ask to be in this situation, and you shouldn’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Rear-end collisions often result in the other driver being at fault, but insurance companies may still try to minimize your claim or rush you into a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your damages.

If you’re dealing with injuries, mounting medical bills, or disputes with insurance companies, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced rear-end accident attorney. At The Ruth Law Team, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that rear-end collisions can take on accident victims and their families. We’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

rear-end accident lawyer

Frequently Asked Questions About Rear-End Collisions

Can I Sue Someone For Rear Ending Me?

Yes, you may be able to sue someone for rear-ending you, depending on the severity of your injuries and damages. You can typically pursue legal action if the collision resulted in permanent injuries, substantial medical expenses, property damage or ongoing pain and suffering. For minor accidents with minimal damage, the costs of litigation may outweigh the potential recovery. An experienced... read more?

If I Was Rear Ended, Who’s At Fault?

In most rear-end collisions, the driver who strikes from behind is considered at fault because all drivers must maintain a safe following distance and remain alert to traffic conditions. However, there are exceptions where the front driver might share responsibility, such as: Sudden, unexpected stops without cause (brake-checking) Backing up unexpectedly in traffic Driving with broken... read more?

How Long Does A Rear End Settlement Take?

Rear-end collision settlements typically range from a few months to several years. Straightforward cases with minor injuries might settle within 3-6 months, while complex cases involving serious injuries can take 12-24 months or longer. However, there are certainly other factors to take into consideration, such as which insurance companies or adjusters are involved, a client’s willingness to... read more?

If You Get Rear Ended And Hit The Car In Front Of You, Whose Fault Is It?

When you're rear-ended and pushed into the vehicle in front of you, creating a multi-car chain reaction, liability determination becomes more complex. In many cases, the driver who initiated the collision (the one who rear-ended you) is responsible for damages to all vehicles involved, including your car and the car you were pushed into. This situation is often called a "chain reaction" or... read more?

What is a typical settlement amount for a low-speed rear-end collision injury case?

As a personal injury attorney, I often get asked about the average settlement amount for low-speed rear-end collision injury cases. While every case is unique and the amount of compensation can vary based on a variety of factors, there are some general guidelines that can be helpful in understanding what to expect. When it comes to low-speed rear-end collisions, the amount of compensation is... read more?

Our Rear-End Accident Case Results

$125,000

Settlement for a Client Who Was Rear Ended at a Red Light

We obtained a $125,000 settlement on behalf of our client who was rear ended at a stop light in the Feather Sound neighborhood. Our client dealt with neck and back… read more?
$800,000

Three-Car Rear-End Collision

This client was involved in a three-car collision when he was hit from behind and pushed into the car in front of him. He had recently undergone shoulder surgery and suffered further injury to the joint.
$425,000

Car Accident Settlement

The Ruth Law Team settled a case for a gentleman who was in a five-car pile up caused by an erratic driver. He underwent shoulder surgery as a result of being rear ended.
$444,000

Verdict for a Man Injured by an Uninsured Motorist

Our client suffered injuries to the head, neck and back when an uninsured motorist rear-ended him while sitting in traffic. The at-fault driver hit our client with enough force to propel him into another vehicle,… read more?
$100,000

Rear-End Collision Verdict

Verdict to a resolve a claim arising from a rear end collision.
$250,000

Rear-End Collision Settlement

Settlement received for our client who was rear ended on the highway. The vehicle rolled several times and the victim sustained multiple fractures and lacerations.
$275,000

Driver Rear Ended While Stopped in Traffic

Verdict of $275K obtained for a driver rear ended at high rate of speed while stopped in traffic for a school bus. Our client sustained significant injury to his knee, resulting in surgery as well… read more?
$260,000

Driver Rear Ended, Suffers Neck Injury

Settlement for victim rear ended at high rate of speed. She suffered injury to her neck and also her shoulder, requiring surgery on both.
$257,500

Victim Injured in Crash with Rock Hauler

Settlement for victim in significant crash with a rock hauler that ran a red light. The driver was ejected from the vehicle and suffered multiple fractures, abrasions and facial wounds.

NOTE: Client may not obtain the same or similar results.

Featured Review

 
Lisa C.

What Happens Next?

At The Ruth Law Team, we understand that this may be your first time seeking legal counsel and how intimidating that decision might be. This is why we have simplified the process to help you make the right decision for your circumstances. This 3-step process includes:

Complete Our Case Evaluation Form

This quick survey will help us better understand what happened and which attorney is the best fit for your situation.

Speak with One of Our Attorneys

The best way for you to have a clear idea your options is to speak with an attorney who specializes in your area of need.

Submit Your
Claim

Once you decide that The Ruth Law Team is the right option to represent you, we will begin the process of submitting your claim.

rear-end accident lawyer

Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents

The National Transportation Safety Board found that 87 percent of rear-end collisions result from distracted driving(opens in a new tab). But there are other ways you may find yourself the victim of a rear-end accident including: 

Contact Our Rear-End Accident Attorneys

If you have been hit from behind, then you may be eligible for compensation. It is vital that you hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.

The Ruth Law Team has a proven track record of success. Our rear-end collision lawyers have decades of cumulative experience and can help you build a strong case for rear-end collision damages. Do not delay. Contact The Ruth Law Team today and schedule your free consultation. We will connect you with a talented rear-end crash lawyer near you.

rear-end accident lawyer

About The Ruth Law Team

For over 40 years, The Ruth Law Team has been helping those who were injured due to an accident, defective product, nursing home abuse, and more. If you or someone you love was wrongfully hurt, The Ruth Law Team will guide and support you through the legal process.

Our team of passionate and experienced personal injury attorneys will fight for what you deserve. If you would like to speak with one of our attorneys and have your case evaluated, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at (888) 783-8378. Our lines are open 24/7.

The Ruth Law Team Attorneys