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South Carolina Rear-End Accident Lawyers
Getting you the results you need after a rear-end auto accident in SC
One of the most common types of auto accidents is rear-end collisions. Unfortunately, it is not unusual for one vehicle to hit another one from behind. If you are the victim of a rear-end accident, you have the right to pursue compensation. While these cases are usually fairly simple and often get settled before court, it is still important to have an experienced South Carolina rear-end accident lawyer on your side to protect your rights. At McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, our attorneys are experienced at handling any type of motor vehicle accident. Let us use our experience and knowledge to benefit you after your car has been struck from behind.
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What is a rear-end car accident?
A rear-end car accident is a type of car accident that occurs when one vehicle collides with the back end or rear bumper of another vehicle. It is one of the most common types of car accidents and typically happens when the trailing vehicle fails to maintain a safe distance or is unable to stop in time to avoid a collision.
In a rear-end accident, the leading vehicle is usually stopped or moving slowly, such as when waiting at a traffic light, stop sign, or in heavy traffic. The trailing vehicle may fail to brake or stop in time, resulting in a collision with the rear of the leading vehicle.
The causes of rear-end accidents can vary, including distracted driving, tailgating, speeding, impaired driving, poor weather conditions, sudden lane changes, or mechanical failure. In some cases, the trailing driver may be deemed at fault for not maintaining a safe distance or driving negligently.
The severity of a rear-end accident can range from minor fender-benders with minor damage to more significant collisions, causing extensive property damage, injuries, or even fatalities. Whiplash is a common injury associated with rear-end accidents, as the impact can cause a sudden and forceful movement of the neck.
What types of injuries happen from rear-end car accidents?
Rear-end car accidents can result in various types of injuries, ranging from minor to severe. The specific injuries that occur depend on factors such as the speed at which the collision occurred, the size and weight of the vehicles involved, the use of seat belts and airbags, and the position and awareness of the occupants. Here are some common injuries associated with rear-end car accidents:
- Head and brain injuries. The impact of a rear-end collision can cause the head to strike against the headrest, window, or steering wheel. This can result in concussions, contusions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or other head injuries. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and sensory disturbances.
- Spinal cord injuries. The forceful movement of the body during a rear-end collision can cause damage to the spine. Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or spinal cord injuries can occur, leading to severe pain, limited mobility, paralysis, or even long-term disabilities.
- Chest and rib injuries. The impact from a rear-end collision can cause occupants to be forcefully pushed against their seat belts or steering wheel, resulting in chest contusions, broken ribs, or internal organ injuries. These injuries can cause breathing difficulties, chest pain, and internal bleeding.
- Lower limb injuries. The lower limbs, such as the knees, ankles, and feet, are particularly vulnerable in rear-end collisions. They can be crushed or impacted by the dashboard, pedals, or other objects within the vehicle, leading to fractures, sprains, strains, or dislocations.
- Facial injuries. If the occupants' faces strike the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbag during a rear-end collision, facial injuries like cuts, bruises, fractures, or dental injuries can occur. Airbag deployment can also cause facial injuries due to the sudden release of force.
- Fatal injuries. A rear-end crash can be fatal. A driver or passenger could die at the scene if the collision or succumb to injuries later. In such a case, we can help you file a wrongful death lawsuit.
What should I do after a rear-end car accident in South Carolina?
As with all car wrecks, there are certain steps you should take if you have been involved in a rear-end accident, including:
- If possible, pull over to a safe location
- If anyone is injured, call an ambulance
- Contact the police to get an official report written up
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers and any witnesses
- Take pictures of the damage to help your case
- Contact an experienced South Carolina auto accident lawyer
If you follow these steps, you are more likely to have a successful outcome to your accident claim. Trust our rear-end accident attorneys to fight for your best interests.
How is fault determined in a rear-end accident?
Unlike with other types of accidents, fault in rear-end collisions is usually clear. The tailing driver who hits the car in front of them is almost always at fault. It usually does not matter if the car in front stopped short or if there were poor weather conditions. Drivers are supposed to leave a certain amount of space between themselves and the car in front of them to prevent these types of collisions. That is why proving fault in these cases is usually straightforward. However, a skilled South Carolina auto accident attorney is still necessary to ensure that you get the appropriate amount of financial damages after an accident.
Do you have a rear-end car accident attorney near me?
McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC is located at 1539 Health Care Drive in Rock Hill, SC. If you are too ill or injured to visit us, we can see you in the hospital or meet via telephone or video conference.
We also maintain offices in or near Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville, and serve clients throughout the State of South Carolina in all 46 counties, including Sumter, Anderson, Orangeburg, Hilton Head, Aiken, and Spartanburg.
Contact our South Carolina auto accident law firm right away
The lawyers at McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, have a proven track record of success in car accident cases. Our lawyers are dedicated, driven, and committed to delivering results. Your car accident case matters to us. Let us help you obtain the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC, today. Call our offices at 803-327-7800 to schedule a free case evaluation by a South Carolina auto accident attorney, or fill out our contact form from any device.