Washington, D.C. Rear-End Wreck Lawyers

What Are the Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in Washington, D.C.?

The following are common reasons for rear-end wrecks:

• Weather. Weather conditions often impact drivers’ ability to stop their vehicles. Rain, ice, and snow can cause dangerous road conditions, leading vehicles to skid and impair their ability to brake. It is imperative that during severe weather conditions, motorists keep a safe distance between themselves and the car in front of them and drive slowly to avoid rear-end wrecks.
• Impairment. When drivers are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication, they risk the ability to act quickly to avoid a collision.
• Distractions. Texting, talking on a cell phone, and eating food are some ways drivers get distracted from focusing on the road. In traffic, even minor distractions can cause the driver to collide with the car in front due to congestion.
• Mechanical Issues. When a driver operates a vehicle with a mechanical failure, it can impact their ability to control the vehicle when requiring a sudden stop.

Who Is Liable for a Rear-End Collision in Washington, D.C.?

Often, the driver that collides from the rear is found liable. It is the duty of drivers to have adequate space in front to stop the vehicle in case the car ahead comes to a sudden halt. However, there are certain instances where the vehicle in front may be found liable. In these instances, a skillful attorney is required to show the driver’s liability through evidence.

The following instances illustrate a scenario where the driver in front may be found liable:

• Sudden braking: If the car in front brakes suddenly for no reason, such as to check one’s brakes.
• Sudden reversal: If the car in front suddenly begins to reverse.
• Mechanical failure: If a driver continues to drive after a flat tire or drives with brake lights that are not functional.

Liability can be proven through witness statements, police reports, and photographs taken at the accident scene. It is important to call the police immediately following an accident.

Legal Rights After a Rear-End Collision in Washington, D.C.

Drivers in Washington, D.C. must maintain a reasonable and safe following distance between vehicles to safely stop and not crash into the vehicle they are following. Failing to obey this law can be considered negligent if the driver causes an accident by following too closely. This may entitle you to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.

The District often presumes that drivers who cause rear-end collisions are at fault for resulting accidents. However, at-fault drivers have the right to rebut the presumption and claim they share partial responsibility, which can affect whether or not they are entitled to compensation. Washington, D.C. follows a strict “contributory negligence” rule, which means that if you are even one percent at fault in the accident, you are barred from recovering damages from the other driver.

You also have rights regarding how you seek compensation. Washington, D.C. has a “no-fault” option for car accident claims, allowing you to cover your damages through your insurance company, regardless of who is at fault. You have 60 days after the accident to decide whether to file a no-fault claim or to pursue a claim against the other driver.

Under strict contributory negligence, this option may be the best method of recovering compensation if you believe you may share responsibility. However, if you choose a no-fault claim, you cannot pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Rear-End Accident in Washington, D.C.?

Following a car accident, you may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages for your injuries and losses, such as:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Past and future lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Disability or disfigurement
• Emotional distress

What Should I Do Following a Rear-End Accident in Washington, D.C.?

Gathering as much information and evidence as possible after an accident can significantly benefit your claim. If you are physically able, you should take the following steps after an accident:

• Call the police and report the accident and injuries.
• Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
• Minimize conversation, and do not apologize. What you say can be used against you later.
• Photograph the scene, damage, injuries, and other factors contributing to the accident.
• Ask witnesses for contact information and statements.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out any life-threatening internal injuries with no immediately apparent symptoms. You also need a doctor’s report to file a successful claim.
• Keep all records and documents related to the accident.
• Consult an experienced Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer with a successful record of securing maximum compensation for clients.

In Washington, D.C., you only have three years from the date of the accident or death to file a car accident claim.