What to Do If You’re Rear-Ended at a Stoplight

Few accident scenarios are more frustrating than rear-end collisions at stoplights. You’re quite literally minding your own business while waiting for the light to change when a motorist—most likely one who’s drunk, drowsy, or distracted—careens into the back of your vehicle.

Fortunately, since there’s nothing you can reasonably do to prevent such a crash, assigning blame is usually fairly straightforward. In order to recover a payout, though, you’re still going to have to put together a strong claim. That generally starts by taking the following steps:

1. Preserve Footage from the Scene

If you took photographs or videos of the scene, copy the files onto an external hard drive to ensure redundancy, and store it in a safe place. This footage may help prove both liability and damages when the time comes.

2. Obtain Statements from Eyewitnesses

If you were able to get the names and phone numbers of those who witnessed the crash—e.g. other motorists, their passengers, and any pedestrians who were in the vicinity at the time—it’s wise to reach out sooner rather than later. Eyewitness testimony becomes less reliable as time goes on, so you’re going to want to call these parties—or give their contact details to your legal team so they can reach out—as soon as possible.

3. Get a Copy of the Police Report

The police who responded to the scene should have drafted a formal report. This document will inevitably include information that contributes to the strength of your claim.

Since it may also provide a starting point for the investigation—if officers had reason to believe the motorist who struck you was texting and driving, for example, they will have noted as much in their report—it’s advisable to request a copy right away.

4. Visit a Doctor

When rear-end collisions occur at low speeds, they don’t often cause life-threatening injuries that demand immediate medical attention. Because you could still be seriously hurt, though, it’s imperative to undergo a comprehensive medical exam as soon as possible.

Even if you were able to walk away from the scene, visit a doctor right away. This will ensure the prompt treatment of all injuries, including those that many not manifest any symptoms for days or even weeks.

5. Call a Personal injury Attorney

Once your condition has stabilized, you can prioritize your claim. To get started, reach out to a reputable personal injury firm. A resourceful car accident lawyer will be able to handle virtually every aspect of the case, so you can focus on other, more important matters.

Discuss Your Case with a Car Accident Lawyer in St. Cloud

At Bradshaw & Bryant, we know just how devastating unanticipated injuries can be. If you turn to our team for counsel following a wreck, you’ll get the full force of the firm behind your every move.

Get started by scheduling a free case review. Call 320-259-5414 or complete our Online Contact Form to set up your consultation with a car accident attorney in St. Cloud.