Cleveland Rear End Accidents
Our Ohio attorneys fight for injury victims
Rear-end accidents have long been one of the most common types of car accidents in Cleveland – from high-speed rear-end collisions on I-90 to rear-end crashes caused by aggressive drivers on West Saint Clair Avenue or another busy street in Cleveland. But in recent years, rear-end accidents have become even more routine as many drivers fail to pay attention to everything around them on the road.
There’s also a common misunderstanding when it comes to rear-end collisions. Many people think these accidents aren’t serious. We know the truth. We know that many rear-end car crashes result in severe injuries, including injuries to the head, spine and neck. Among the most common rear-end accident injuries are whiplash, a type of neck injury.
Knowing what to after a rear-end accident can be confusing. Fortunately, you’re not alone. Our experienced Ohio rear-end accident attorneys at Merriman Legal, LLC, can help you every step of the way with your case. We know how the legal system works and what needs to be done to make things right.
Common causes
There are many reasons why rear-end accidents happen. In many cases, drivers fail to pay attention and crash into the car in front of them. Some of the most common causes of rear-end accidents include:
- Texting while driving
- Distracted driving
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Speeding drivers
- Drunk drivers
Whatever the cause of your rear-end accident, contact us and schedule your free case evaluation. We want to meet with you and explain all your available legal options.
How to file a rear-end accident claim
When you're in a rear-end accident in Ohio, one of the first steps you should take is to notify your insurance company. It's crucial to inform them about the accident as soon as possible, even if you don't believe you're at fault or your injuries appear minor. They can guide you through the claims process and help you gather the necessary information and documentation to support your claim. But don’t simply rely on them. It’s often in your best interest to have a rear-end accident attorney on your side who will truly look out for your best interests. Car accident injury claims can quickly turn into complicated legal cases. An experienced Cleveland rear-end accident lawyer can make sure your rights are respected and work with you to demand maximum financial compensation.
How long does it take to settle?
The time it takes to settle a rear-end accident claim can vary widely, and it largely depends on the unique circumstances of your case. Some claims are resolved relatively quickly, within a few weeks or months, especially when liability is clear, and injuries are minor. However, in more complex cases with severe injuries or disputed liability, the process can take significantly longer, stretching into several months or even years. For example, someone who suffered only a headache or minor concussion may settle their case more quickly than someone who suffered a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Every rear-end crash often presents its own distinct legal challenges.
Who is at fault for a rear-end accident?
In Ohio, fault for a rear-end accident is often straightforward. Typically, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle and hits the car in front from behind is considered at fault for the accident. This is based on the legal principle that every driver should maintain a safe following distance and be prepared to stop or slow down if necessary to avoid a collision. However, liability in a rear-end accident can be influenced by many other factors, such as the weather conditions, if you were rear-ended by a drunk driver, or other circumstances.
Why choose us
You might think you don’t need a lawyer if another driver crashed into your car. All you have to do is contact the police or your insurance company and they will take care of everything. You didn’t do anything wrong. What do you have to worry about?
Don’t be so sure. In many cases, many drivers who cause rear-end accidents deny doing anything wrong. And if they do admit wrongdoing, don’t simply assume that insurance companies will fairly compensate you. In most cases, most insurance companies will do everything they can to pay you as little as possible or nothing at all.
That’s not right. That’s why we want to work with you. We know what evidence matters. We know how to take on insurance companies. And if they refuse to cooperate with us, we’re prepared to take them to court on your behalf. Your case matters here.