If you have been rear-ended after merging, you might be able to recover compensation for your damages by pursuing a personal injury claim. When you are merging into traffic, you do have responsibilities to make sure it is safe.
However, the other vehicles also must watch for your vehicle and use caution when you enter traffic. But when there is a rear-end collision, more often than not, the driver of the vehicle that hits the other from behind is usually at fault for the crash. You need to stay on the accident scene and make sure an accident report is completed by a police officer.
How a Merging Rear-End Collision Occurs
When you merge into traffic, you should always use your signal to indicate you are entering that lane of traffic. You must judge to make sure you have enough room to get between cars. The cars must watch out for you as well.
If a car speeds up and hits you, the driver of that vehicle is at fault. Oncoming traffic must watch for cars that are merging as well and they must leave enough room to stop for slowing traffic or for vehicles that are in front of them. This means when a car is cutting into traffic in front of them, they must slow down to avoid a collision.
Damages That May Result From a Rear-End Collision
A rear-end collision can lead to serious injuries. When you are hit from behind, you will experience a whip-like motion that will throw you forward then backward. Usually, neck and back injuries result from such an accident. Sometimes spinal injuries, paralysis or even traumatic brain injuries can result depending on the speed of the vehicles and the severity of the impact.
Property damages can be severe as well, and your car might be deemed a total loss. You will need to get photos of the damages and go to a qualified auto repair technician to get an estimate for repairing the damages. You will also need to keep copies of your medical records and medical bills. Document any missed work and lost wages as well.
Proving Negligence
When you prove negligence, you have a strong foundation for your personal injury claim. In this case, if you prove that the driver of the other vehicle failed to slow down or even sped up, you can prove he or she acted negligently and that led to your crash. You will then need to show that your injuries were a result of the crash. If negligence has been proven, your odds of getting a fair settlement for your damages increases significantly.
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been rear-ended after merging, you need to consult with a personal injury attorney. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have your details shared with an accident injury lawyer. The personal injury attorney will investigate your accident, determine your damages, and then determine the best way to proceed with your claim.
