Rear-end car crashes are also called fender-benders and are the most common type of collision nationwide. They almost always avoid driver carelessness, such as texting or other driver distractions, and are more likely to happen when there are higher traffic rates.
While many fender-benders are minor, causing little property damage or bodily harm, they can also be severe when the at-fault motorist travels at higher speeds. Schedule an appointment with a hard-working attorney skilled with claims from rear-end car accidents in Kent if you need help with a case.
Causes of Fender-Benders
Fender-benders happen suddenly and almost always catch the person hit from behind off guard. Some of the typical causes of the crashes include:
- Distracted driving, such as using a hand-held communication device to read or write text messages, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio
- Wet and slippery roads from rain, snow, or sleet
- Break failure or other defective auto parts
- Aggressive driving and following too closely
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Backing out of areas, such as parking spaces or driveways, without checking for cars behind them
Determining the cause and collecting evidence of fault is crucial for collecting a settlement from the liable driver to cover the damages and losses. A Kent attorney seasoned with lawsuits from rear-end car crashes could conduct a thorough investigation to build a solid case and prove fault successfully.
Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Car crashes often happen due to various actions leading to the collision, and it is common for more than one person to share fault. The defendant may assert the injured person shares fault. If the court determines they are partly liable for the damages, they can still collect compensation from the defendant for their portion of liability.
Per the guidance of the Revised Code of Washington ยง 4.22.005, the court will diminish the payout amount by that percentage when the injured person shares fault. Under the rule, the claimant can recover a settlement for the other party’s part of the liability, even if their responsibility is more. A lawyer skilled in handling cases resulting from Kent fender benders could answer questions about the rules and regulations and help calculate the award for damages under the pure comparative fault rule.
Recovering a Settlement for Damages and Losses
After establishing fault and damages, the court may award a settlement for the following:
- Current and ongoing medical care and procedures
- Medical equipment, devices, home renovations, and medication
- Lost pay, benefits, and earning potential
- Pain and suffering the person experiences while performing daily tasks
- Loss of enjoyment of life and participating in activities they enjoyed before the cause of action
- Psychological harm and emotional damage, such as post-traumatic stress and anxiety disorders
Damages fall within two groups, with the first being the monetary and out-of-pocket losses easily verified through medical bills and financial statements. The second is a person’s non-monetary injuries in car accidents, such as pain and suffering.
Call to Schedule an Appointment With a Practiced Attorney About Kent Rear-End Car Accidents
When another person’s careless actions behind the wheel cause you to suffer bodily harm and property damages, you must hold them financially responsible. The civil court process often requires skillful negotiation and litigation skills and can be overwhelming when people try to take on the case alone.
A diligent lawyer experienced with handling cases after rear-end car accidents in Kent could help you through the process and provide legal advice at each step. Call today to learn more about your legal options.