Bridgeview Rear-End Collision Lawyers Aid Accident Victims

Determined attorney focuses on recovering full compensation for injuries

Rear-end collisions are the most frequent type of car crashes in Illinois, accounting for about 29 percent of all accidents, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. In addition to property damage, these crashes can cause painful, lasting injuries for drivers and passengers. If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end collision, the lawyers at the Skinner Law Firm, P.C. in Bridgeview are ready to help. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience, we will thoroughly investigate your crash and vigorously pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.

Common causes of rear-end accidents

Illinois is an at-fault state, which means an injured party can seek compensation from the driver who caused the accident. Rear-end collisions are usually but not always the fault of the trailing driver for following too closely. Drivers should always maintain a following distance that enables them to stop or maneuver past the lead car if necessary. Aggressive driving, tailgating and speeding are major contributing factors in rear-end collisions. Another is distraction, which can prevent a driver from noticing the car ahead of them has slowed or stopped, until it is too late. However, fault might be shared by a driver who stops dead in moving traffic, thereby creating a road obstruction that causes other cars to collide — sometimes in a chain reaction.

In some cases, a mechanical defect can cause a rear-end car accident. Faulty brakes can prevent a vehicle from stopping in time to avoid a crash. Road defects and bad weather might also be factors. However, the law imposes a duty to drive carefully even in adverse conditions, such as wet and icy roads.

Common injuries in rear-end crashes

Whiplash is frequently suffered in rear-end collisions. This occurs when the impact of the crash causes the head to snap violently backward and forward. Whiplash can lead to lasting damage in the neck and back, subjecting the victim to chronic pain and a wide range of symptoms.

In addition to whiplash, rear-end collisions can cause:

• Neck, back and spine injuries
• Herniated discs
• Head and brain injuries
• Soft-tissue injuries
• Knee injuries
• Shoulder injuries
• Fractured bones
• Bruises and lacerations

Our firm consults medical experts to assess the full extent of your injuries and your prognosis for recovery, so we can estimate the amount of financial compensation you deserve.

Rear-end accidents involving trucks

According to a recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), almost 400,000 trucks are involved in motor vehicle crashes annually. Of these accidents, 18 percent are rear-end collisions.

Large commercial trucks require longer distances to slow down and stop and they often lack the maneuverability to avoid imminent collisions. Rear-end collisions with big rigs are particularly dangerous because carriers are up to 40 times heavier than passenger cars. The force and mass of a tractor trailer semi-truck can inflict far more damage than another passenger car, leading to more severe injuries.

Then, after the accident, you must deal with a large corporation that is determined to reduce its liability for your injuries. You may face a stressful legal battle at the very time you are coping with extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

How a Bridgeview lawyer can help after a rear-end collision

An experienced lawyer will gather the evidence needed to prove the defendant driver’s liability and can negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company. Our firm has an established track record in severe injury cases. We work tirelessly to secure the maximum amount of compensation possible for your injuries.

Contact a trustworthy accident attorney for a free rear-end collision consultation

The Skinner Law Firm, P.C. in Bridgeview, Illinois provides effective representation for victims of rear-end auto accidents. We have delivered positive results throughout the Cook County area for more than 20 years. Please call 312-635-6459 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.