Wichita Falls Read-End Car Accidents
Rear-end car accidents are very common in Wichita Falls and elsewhere in Texas and Oklahoma. In many cases, you will not be held liable if your car was the car that was rear-ended. In Texas, traffic laws typically place fault on the driver who wrecked into the rear end of the car in front of them. The law requires drivers to maintain safe distances when driving behind others. The reason the law requires safe distances between cars is to protect from sudden stops or a sudden decrease in speed. By maintaining a safe distances, drivers have a better chance of avoiding a collision. Therefore, drivers who are following behind others have a duty to maintain safe distances.
Additionally, if you are rear-ended but you can prove that the collision is what forced you to rear end another vehicle, you may not be held responsible for that collision. Instead, the person who hit you would also be responsible. These rules are generally applicable to all rear-end accidents regardless of where they occur.
Exceptions to Liability in Wichita Falls Rear-End Accidents
While it is generally true that the person who did the rear-ending is held liable for the accident, that isn’t always the case. In the following situations, the driver who got rear-ended may share liability with the person who did the rear-ending.
- The front driver suddenly swerves in front of another car recklessly and for no reason.
- The front driver changes gears and reverses into the car behind it.
- The front driver suddenly stops for no reason.
- The front driver’s brake lights are not working.
- The front driver is driving while impaired or is engaged in some other illegal activity including racing and “road rage.”
Why You Must Document All Car Accidents in Wichita Falls
After a Wichita Falls rear-end accident, it is crucial that you gather as much evidence as you can about the wreck. Documenting this evidence can be critical in proving what caused the crash and helping you recover compensation for the accident. If you fail to do this, it may be difficult to prove what the cause of the accident was, and it may be difficult to get the insurance company to pay for your claim. As time goes on, evidence becomes stale, so it is important to collect it right away. Evidence you should collect include photographs, videos, and the information of anyone who witnessed the accident. Additionally, the following information will help you properly document your rear-end car accident in Wichita Falls:
- Call 911 and get the police to make an accident report
- Write down names, addresses, and contact information of all parties involved, including a description of the vehicles, license plate numbers, and insurance information.
- Write down names and contact information of all witnesses and if possible, get a signed written statement from them.
- Use your phone to take pictures and videos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you suffered.
- Seek medical attention immediately and be up front and honest about all your injuries. Additionally, follow the doctor’s orders.
While we caution against talking with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you should let your own insurance company know about the accident. Most importantly, if your accident involves very serious injuries, you should consult with an experienced Wichita Falls car accident lawyer. They will know how to conduct a proper investigation, collect the necessary evidence, and deal with the insurance companies in order to get you the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve.
Our Wichita Falls car accident lawyer will give you a free evaluation of your case. We can answer any questions you may have and offer you some guidance even if you decide not to hire us.
Contact our Wichita Falls Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer
If you or anyone you know has been injured in a Wichita Falls rear-end car accident, call us today at 940-569-4000 to set up a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation. We are happy to hear about your situation and we can provide you with the guidance you need. We at least encourage you to download our free book, The Traveler’s Guide to the Universe of Personal Injury, to learn more about personal injury and car accidents.