DC Car Collision Attorney

There are many different ways that car accidents may occur. Two common kinds of collisions are referred to as “rear-end” and “head-on.” A rear-end collision occurs when the front of one motor vehicle collides with the rear of another motor vehicle. A head-on collision occurs when the front of one vehicle runs directly into the front of another vehicle. Both types of accidents can be very dangerous and can result in both catastrophic injuries and the need for a DC collision lawyer.

Having an experienced DC car accident lawyer on your side is important because of the commonality of such claims, and because of the stakes involved for those injured, or who have lost a loved one, due to rear-end and head-on collisions.

If you were involved in a car accident, the type of collision that occurred is extremely important in determining the cause of the accident and who was responsible, and also for demonstrating that the accident was the cause of your injuries. In a busy city like Washington, DC rear-end and head-on collisions are fairly common, and if you have suffered injury in either type of crash you should contact the knowledgeable DC collision attorneys at our firm as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Rear-end Collisions

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 28 percent of all car accidents are rear-end collisions. Rear-end collisions commonly occur either because the front vehicle brakes suddenly or because the rear vehicle is following too closely or accelerates too quickly.

Due to the nature of a rear-end collision, the most commonly suffered injury is whiplash. This is because occupants of the front vehicle often experience a sudden jerking of the head. Disc herniation is also common due to the sudden jolt. Sometimes rear-end accidents can cause even more serious injuries, especially to children and other passengers in vehicles with short crumple zones in the rear, such as minivans.

Generally, fault for rear-end collisions is attributed to the rear driver. Even if the driver in front suddenly slams on their brakes, all drivers are expected to follow at a safe enough distance to allow them the time and space to respond to sudden slowdowns or stops. However, if the front driver acted in a negligent manner, such as failing to have working brake lights, they may be found liable for the accident. A skilled DC collision lawyer can work with you to identify the at-fault party and make sure they are held accountable.

Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions are less common than rear-end collisions, yet these collisions more frequently result in fatalities. Head-on collisions are often categorized as “lane departure crashes” or “road departure crashes,” because they often occur when one driver veers across the center line into a lane of oncoming traffic. There are several reasons why a driver may depart from the correct lane, including:

  • Losing control of the vehicle due to a malfunction, such as a tire blowout
  • Taking a sharp curve at too great a speed
  • Another vehicle runs the driver out of their correct lane
  • Hitting a road defect, such as a pothole
  • Passing on a two-lane road
  • Falling asleep at the wheel
  • Driving the wrong way on a one-way street
  • Swerving to avoid a deer, stray dog, or other animal
  • Driving while intoxicated

Though front crumple zones, seat belts, and airbags all work to protect motorists in head-on collisions, the resulting injuries can still be severe and, in some cases, fatal. If you or your loved ones have suffered injuries due to a collision, a knowledgeable DC collision lawyer can help you to determine if you have a viable claim and, if so, to seek the compensation that you require and deserve.

Collision Damages

Following an auto accident, you may experience financial hardship due to medical expenses, damages to your vehicle, time away from work, and other costs. You will be able collect on these damages if someone else is found at fault for the crash or collision that led to these costs. A DC collision lawyer can help you to collect the maximum amount of compensation that you are owed based upon the injuries you sustained, the damages caused by the incident, and the impact that the incident has had on your quality and enjoyment of life. This is an important process for two main reasons: 1) it addresses the harms and losses you suffered; and 2) it holds those responsible for your injuries and losses to account. It is crucial to hold those responsible accountable for the results of their negligence, recklessness, or carelessness, and in many cases a civil action may be the only retribution that an at-fault party will face. Such retribution can be a powerful motivator for those at-fault to correct their negligent or reckless behavior. This in turn makes the roads safer for not only yourself, but for everyone within your community.

Hiring a Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney

The DC collision lawyers at our firm will work tirelessly to see that victims of DC collisions receive the compensation they deserve from the responsible party. Such accidents can result in extensive harm or losses suffered, and thus it is in your best interest to speak with an attorney to determine whether or not filing a personal injury claim is the appropriate course of action. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, call our law offices today to schedule a free initial consultation.