Rear-end collisions are some of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents in West Virginia. They can cause injuries such as whiplash and concussions, as well as expensive property damage. If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in Morgantown, speak to the attorneys at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC. We can review your case and explain your legal rights during a free initial consultation at our local office.
What Can a Morgantown Car Accident Lawyer Do for You?
If you are not sure whether you need to hire a car accident lawyer after a rear-end collision in Morgantown, consider all of the tasks an attorney can complete for you. You will have the time, energy, and focus to concentrate on healing from your serious injuries while a trained and experienced professional handles important matters on your behalf, such as:
- Investigate the rear-end collision
- Collect and preserve evidence
- Obtain signed eyewitness statements
- Help you go up against powerful adversaries and insurance companies
- Hire qualified car accident and medical experts
- Take care of confusing claims paperwork for you
- Prepare your case for trial
An insurance company will not take advantage of you if you have an attorney representing your best interests during settlement negotiations. Although a successful settlement cannot fix everything, it can give your family the ability to pay for necessary medical care now and in the future, including physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Who Is Liable for a Rear-End Collision?
Liability, or financial responsibility, for a rear-end collision can be difficult to determine. According to West Virginia’s fault law, liability goes to the driver or party most at fault for causing the crash. Although this is often the rear driver in a rear-end collision, there are exceptions.
If the leading driver (Driver A) is guilty of a careless or reckless act such as brake-checking or an unsafe lane change, for example, Driver A could be liable if Driver B crashes into the back of his or her car. Driver A could also bear liability for a rear-end collision if he or she had a taillight out and this contributed to the crash.
In a chain reaction accident, which involves three or more vehicles rear-ending each other, the liable party is typically the driver at fault for the initial collision. It may take an in-depth investigation to identify which driver caused the first impact.
What Is the Comparative Negligence Law?
Two or more parties may share fault for a rear-end collision in West Virginia. The state operates under a modified comparative negligence law, meaning as long as one driver is found to be less than 50 percent at fault for the accident, he or she can still recover partial financial compensation. The plaintiff’s degree of fault, however, will reduce his or her financial recovery accordingly.
What Makes Our Law Firm Unique?
Attorney Jeff Robinette has a history as a former insurance attorney. This gives him a unique vantage point when handling auto insurance claims. Jeff knows how insurance companies handle claims and clients, as well as common weaknesses in their negotiation tactics. He can use this knowledge to aggressively negotiate with an insurance company during your rear-end car accident case in Morgantown.
Contact Us Today
After a rear-end car accident, stay calm and report the crash to the police. Exchange information with the other driver and render aid to anyone injured. Take pictures while at the crash scene, if possible, then go to a hospital for immediate medical care. When you are ready, call your car insurance company to report the crash. Then, contact a car accident lawyer for assistance.
Robinette Legal Group, PLLC has years of experience handling many different types of motor vehicle accident cases, including complicated rear-end collisions and catastrophic injury claims. Find out how we can help you and your family during this difficult time. Request your free consultation by calling our office now at (304) 594-1800 or sending us a message online for a prompt callback.
Call us today to find out how we can help you.
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