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Rear-End Collision Lawyers

Denver Rear-End Collision Attorneys

Were you in a rear-end collision and injured within the last three years? Whether or not you think you may share some fault in the accident, our Denver auto accident attorneys could help you understand how to build your case and start moving forward.
Fiedler Trial Lawyers has over 25 years of trial experience. We work diligently for our clients. Our attorneys take on bad-faith insurance companies and provide personal injury legal support so that you can focus on your recovery after a traumatic accident. For more information about how our firm can help you secure compensation after a rear-end accident, call today and speak with one of our expert attorneys. 

What Causes a Rear-End Collision?

There are a number of different factors that could come into play during a rear-end collision. Some of the most commonly seen causes for rear-end car accidents in Denver include: 
 

Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is the leading cause of auto accidents in Denver and the United States. With the proliferation of smartphones, texting or scrolling while driving has become a major source of distraction, causing countless rear-end car accidents. However, distracted driving does not solely include texting and driving. It can also include other reckless behavior such as: 
  • Talking on the phone
  • Getting into animated conversations with passengers
  • Using your in-car navigation system
  • Turning radio dials
  • Eating or drinking
Inattention for a split second is all it takes to cause a rear-end collision. 
 

Substance Use

Driving while under the influence of alcohol is another common reason for rear-end collisions in Denver. Alcohol isn’t the only problematic substance, as many things could slow your reaction times or lead to impulsive decisions. 
If you drive under the influence of the following substances, you may bear some fault for an ensuing accident:
  • Cold or allergy medicine
  • Cannabis
  • Opioids and pain medications
  • Anti-anxiety or antidepressant prescriptions
  • Sleep aids
  • Antiseizure medications
Be sure to talk with your doctor about driving responsibly under these impairments. While marijuana is legal in Denver and the state of Colorado, it is still illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence. 
 

Excessive Speed

Driving over the speed limit can greatly increase your liability in any rear-end collision case. Speeding demonstrates to a judge that you were driving recklessly and unlawfully. 
 

Aggressive Driving

Most people assume that the car in the back of a rear-end accident is always at fault. However, it is possible for the car in front to share the blame or even be fully responsible. For example, if you were swerving through traffic and quickly changing lanes, the person behind you may not have been able to avoid rear-ending you. Drivers who slam on their brakes unexpectedly or without good reason may also be held liable if they caused an accident. 
Other examples of aggressive driving may include:
  • Following the car ahead of you too closely (tailgating)
  • Slowing down in front of a car when you don’t need to
  • Running red lights
  • Weaving through traffic
  • Failing to use your turn signal
  • Purposely blocking another car from changing lanes
Antagonizing other drivers can be extremely dangerous. Just because you were driving in front during a rear-end collision, it does not mean that you can’t be held liable for the accident. 
 

Fatigue and Exhaustion

Driving fatigued can be incredibly dangerous and can easily lead to rear-end collisions. If you were injured in a rear-end accident by a fatigued driver or a driver who fell asleep behind their wheel, our team can help you secure compensation for your injuries. 

Determining Fault After a Rear-End Accident

Fiedler Trial Lawyers will help determine fault after a rear-end collision so that our clients can secure the maximum compensation for their injuries. Gathering as much evidence as you can at the scene will allow you to build a stronger case when determining liability. Here are some steps you can take following your rear-end accident:
 
  1. Check yourself for any apparent injuries like cuts, bruises, lacerations, or broken bones. If you are seriously injured, you should stay put until paramedics arrive. After an accident, your safety is the top priority. 
  2. If you are able, move your car and yourself to safety by moving to the side of the road. 
  3. Never admit fault. Even if you think you may have caused the accident, a lawyer will advise that you don’t apologize or admit fault to the other driver, witnesses, or the police.
  4. Call the police immediately. You should fully cooperate with the place and answer any questions they may have, but try not to give any more information than what is asked of you. 
  5. Consider calling your lawyer. It’s always safer to answer police questions with a representative present.
  6. Take photos. Include images of your car, the other car, the scene, and any other relevant damage, even if the police have already done the same.
  7. Exchange information. You and the other driver should exchange insurance information, and you should give your contact information to the police as well. 
  8. See a doctor. Obviously, you should have any physical injuries addressed as soon as possible. However, it is also smart to see a doctor to check for any internal injuries.
Finally, call your insurance agent to start the claims process.
 
Determining who bears fault in rear-end accidents is one of our primary responsibilities as rear-end collision attorneys. The amount you receive directly depends on your level of responsibility for the crash. However, even the car driving in front may bear some responsibility for the accident in a rear-end collision. 
 
How does fault affect your potential compensation? Imagine the judge awards you $100,000 in medical fees, damages, and pain and suffering but finds you 25% at fault for the accident. In that case, you could end up receiving $75,000 in damages. Every case is different, but collecting evidence and building a strong case with Fiedler Trial Lawyers will help you receive the maximum compensation. 
 

Investigating the Accident and Collecting Evidence

Attorneys don’t just rely on police reports; it’s imperative to:
  • Gather your own witness statements.
  • Confer with authorities.
  • Document the damage with pictures, videos, or even road surveillance footage.
At Fiedler Trial Lawyers, we remain meticulous in our approach because every slice of evidence helps in the end.
 

Advising on Potential Compensation

After gathering evidence, our team will be able to properly assess the case and determine a fair compensation for damage, injuries, pain and suffering, and other claims. At Fiedler Trial Lawyers, we help you explore the following types of claims after an accident:
  • Personal injury: If you experienced an injury after the car crash, personal injury claims can help with your medical bills, medication, and the cost of recovery.
  • Property damage: Our team can help you secure compensation to repair or replace your vehicle if it was totaled in the accident. 
  • Wrongful death: While uncommon after a rear-end collision, our attorneys can help you pursue a wrongful death claim if you lost a loved one as a result of the accident. A wrongful death lawsuit will allow you to seek compensation for things like lost companionship and/or funeral expenses. 
  • Hit and run: We are here to help victims who have been injured in hit-and-run accidents by working with the police and helping you gather evidence. 
  • Lost wages: If the injuries from your rear-end collision have prevented you from working and have resulted in a loss of income, our attorneys will be able to help you seek compensation for your lost wages and potential future loss of income. 
You may be able to recover damages for your pain and suffering after an accident as well. Rear-end collisions can be traumatic experiences that leave victims with feelings of anxiety and PTSD. Call Fiedler Trial Lawyers today to discuss your case and explore the many ways we may be able to help you secure compensation. 
 

Dealing With Bad-Faith Insurance

After an accident, an insurance company may turn to some underhanded techniques to reduce your payout or discredit your policy. Fiedler Trial Lawyers has years of experience dealing with insurance companies acting in bad faith. You can rest assured knowing that our attorneys will be working diligently to ensure your insurance company isn’t taking advantage of you and offering you an unfair settlement.

Common Injuries After a Rear-End Accident

While most rear-end collisions result in minor injury, serious collisions can lead to severe injuries that have a lasting impact. Here are some of the common injuries associated with rear-end accidents in Denver:
 

Head and Neck Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after a rear-end collision. Recovery can take up to eight weeks and may require physical therapy. When victims experience injuries like whiplash or concussions, it can affect their ability to work and may lead to lost income and costly medical bills. A traumatic brain injury may require lengthy treatment, and depending on the severity, it could have lifelong consequences. 
 

Spinal Trauma

A rear-end collision can cause spinal injuries that can induce prolonged pain and impair your mobility. Common spinal trauma from rear-end collisions includes:
  • Herniated disc: When the padding between your vertebrae bulges or leaks spinal fluid, it causes severe pain and reduces your mobility. 
  • Spinal stenosis: The spaces between vertebrae narrow, making you feel immense pressure on your spinal cord and nerves.
  • Facet joint damage: Facet joints connect vertebrae, and damaging them creates chronic pain.
  • Soft tissue injuries: Ligaments and tendons connect your muscles and bones, so a soft tissue injury will derail your mobility, cause bruising, and spike pain levels.
  • Vertebrae fractures: Like any bone in your body, your vertebrae can be fractured and end up paralyzing you.

Bone and Muscle Damage

While spine and head injuries are common, a rear-end collision can also lead to bruising and broken bones. For example: 
  • You may sustain severe bruising from the seat belt or the airbag on your chest, stomach, waist, or even your face.
  • If you tense all your muscles in the accident, you may sprain a leg or wrist. 
  • A passenger who puts their feet on the dashboard may experience devastating injury to their legs in a rear-end accident. 
  • Hands through the steering wheel or incorrectly positioned might cause unexpected injuries during the impact. 

Mental Health Struggles

Suffering an injury in a rear-end collision can often lead to short- or long-term mental health struggles. For example, common mental health issues that arise after a car crash include:
  • Anxiety: The trauma a car accident causes can create long-term anxiety. In severe cases, victims may also experience post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Depression: Experiencing a car accident can only add to the stress and turmoil that many victims deal with on a daily basis. The injuries you suffer and the impact that they can have on your life can easily cause victims to fall into a deep depression. 
  • Loneliness: Victims may experience extreme loneliness if their injuries left them unable to enjoy their daily life the way that they used to, or if they lost a loved one or companion in the accident. 
It’s extremely common for victims of a car accident to develop a phobia about driving, which can greatly impact them in many areas of their lives. Even if you have not been physically injured after a car accident, the impact that it can have on your day-to-day life can be great. 
 

Fatalities

According to the National Law Review, rear-end collisions are the seventh deadliest type of car crash and have a mortality rate of about 7%. Historically, fatalities remain likely only at high speeds or if the rear-ending caused an additional collision with oncoming or cross traffic. 
 
You may pursue a wrongful death claim to help you heal emotionally and financially after losing a loved one in this type of accident. 

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you do not have to pay an accident attorney upfront, as they take a percentage of your settlement. At Fiedler Trial Lawyers, there are no fees unless you recover.

In Denver, the law usually deems the rear driver at fault after a rear-end accident, but there’s value in consulting a lawyer to assess the details for you and give you a more accurate explanation of your case.

Yes, Colorado has a statute of limitations of three years after a vehicle accident, so it’s highly recommended that you reach out to an attorney as soon as possible following your accident. To get started and protect your rights, please reach out to us for experienced legal guidance.

Additional Information in Denver, Colorado

More Frequently
Asked Questions

What to do after a car accident?

If you’ve been injured in an accident, there are several important steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights
  • Dial 911 – Emergency Services. Get checked out by emergency responders, even if you think injuries are minor, you should always get evaluated. If the accident involved a motor vehicle, file a report with the police This documentation could be important later on.
  • Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to vehicles or property. Collect contact information from witnesses and others involved in the accident READ MORE…

When involved in a personal injury claim, the process can be very intimidating. Many individuals facing this situation are often dealing with life-altering injuries, high medical bills, financial hardships and find themselves feeling very vulnerable.

Hiring a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial in a variety of situations, particularly when you have sustained significant injuries or damages due to someone else’s negligenceREAD MORE…

After being injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering if you actually need to hire a personal injury lawyer. You would want to consult with an attorney, because in most cases, there will be an opposing party in your case that will be working against you. Choosing the right personal injury lawyer for your case is important to ensure you receive the best possible representation and outcome. Hiring a Denver Personal injury lawyer that specializes in that area of law is crucial, to ensure that you are getting proper representation, and your case is in good hands. Having an experienced lawyer like FIEDLER Trial Lawyers is helpful and provides powerful representation.

Here are some tips to help you choose the right lawyer:READ MORE…

The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer can vary depending on the lawyer and the specifics of your case. However, personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Here’s how the contingency fee structure typically works and other potential costs to consider:

Contingency Fees: Percentage of Recovery: If the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, they will take a percentage of the settlement or judgment amount you receive if you win your case. This percentage is typically around 33% to 40% but can vary depending on the lawyer and the jurisdiction.

No Win, No Fee: If you do not win your case, the lawyer will not charge you for legal fees. However, there may still be other costs you could be responsible for (discussed below).RAED MORE…

In a personal injury claim, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, also known as damages, to address the losses and injuries you’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. The types of compensation typically fall into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages. Here’s an overview of each:

Economic Damages: These damages are intended to compensate you for actual financial losses resulting from the injury:

Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, current, and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any other necessary medical treatment. READ MORE…

The value of a personal injury case can vary greatly depending on several factors unique to your situation. Since each case is different, there is no standard formula to calculate the exact value. However, here are some key factors that generally affect the worth of a personal injury case:
Severity of Injuries: The more serious and long-lasting your injuries, the higher the potential value of your case. This includes considering whether your injuries result in permanent disability or disfigurement.
Medical Expenses: Your case will take into account all medical expenses you have incurred, as well as future medical costs related to your injury.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: The case can include compensation for lost income due to time off work and any future loss of earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work.READ MORE…

Our Client’s Say It Best

The best way to know and trust our Attorney Law Firm is to read
directly from our own clients.

Kevin

10 months ago

This is the representation that you are looking for! Ken Fiedler hits every box; from punctuality to communication to professionalism. I couldn’t be more satisfied to have chosen Ken to solve this unfortunate problem of mine. He will do the same for you!

Franscheliz

a year ago

I want to take this opportunity to thank this team for everything they did for my family. James and Ken worked on my case with the dedication and tact that you need the most. They fought for my family like I was part of theirs and made me feel seen and heard. This is the type of law firm you want and…

Brandi

a year ago

Ken and his staff are top notch! Ken helped my son and I with our auto accident case. He always took the time to answer our questions or explain things in more detail if needed. Ken is honest, straightforward, and a pleasure to work with. I will always recommend Ken and his team and…

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Offices

4725 S. Monaco Street, Suite 120
Denver, CO 80237
Phone: 720-996-6000

1800 Wazee Street, Suite 300
Denver, CO  80202

77 West Wacker Drive, Suite 4500
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 303-225-5536

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KEN FIEDLER | 303.CALL.KEN

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