If you’ve been in a rear-end crash, you may be wondering, should I get a lawyer for a rear-end car accident? It’s a fair question and an important one. Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents in Richmond and across Virginia. But just because they’re common doesn’t mean they’re simple to resolve.
At Merrick Brock, PLLC, we help injured people take the guesswork out of what comes next. Here’s what you need to know about hiring a lawyer after a rear-end crash, when legal help matters most, and how we can help protect your rights.
Are Rear-End Accidents Always Minor?
Not at all. While some rear-end crashes result in minor property damage or soreness that resolves quickly, others cause serious, life-changing injuries. Common injuries from rear-end collisions include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage,
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries,
- Herniated discs and spinal cord damage,
- Broken bones, and
- Internal injuries.
We know that minor impacts do not equal minor injuries (but that is what the insurance companies will argue). Symptoms don’t always appear immediately, either. What feels like soreness today could develop into a serious condition tomorrow. Having an attorney on your side early can help ensure that all damages, both immediate and long-term, are accounted for.
What Does a Lawyer Do After a Rear-End Accident?
Hiring an attorney isn’t just about going to court. In fact, most personal injury claims never make it to trial. But even before that, a Richmond rear-end accident attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and preserve evidence,
- Review police and medical records,
- Help you access medical care and treatment documentation,
- Handle all communication with insurance companies,
- Negotiate for a full and fair settlement,
- File a lawsuit and aggressively litigate on your behalf;
- Try your case, if needed.
Rear-end accidents may seem straightforward, but insurance companies will often look for any reason to deny or reduce your claim. A lawyer ensures your side of the story is heard and backed by solid evidence.
Should I Get a Lawyer for a Rear-End Car Accident?
If you suffered injuries, missed work, or are blamed for a crash you didn’t cause, the answer is likely yes.
Rear-end crashes are often assumed to be the rear driver’s fault, but there are exceptions. Multi-car pileups, cut-offs, sudden stops, and mechanical failures can complicate the question of liability. Insurance adjusters are aware of this and may use it to reduce the amount they pay you.
An experienced attorney can:
- Evaluate your specific situation,
- Help establish clear liability,
- Push back if the other side tries to shift blame, and
- Maximize the value of your claim.
You only get one chance to pursue compensation. Don’t leave it to chance.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Rear-End Accident?
One of the most common questions we hear is, how long does it take to settle a rear-end accident? The answer depends on several factors:
- The severity of your injuries,
- Whether there is a dispute over liability,
- How quickly you reach maximum medical improvement, and
- Whether the insurance company negotiates fairly.
Some cases settle in a matter of months. Others may take a year or more, especially if your case goes to trial. Our target is to resolve a case or file a lawsuit within two months after a client finishes with his or her medical treatment. At Merrick Brock, we move cases forward with purpose, but we never rush a settlement if it doesn’t fully account for your losses.
How Much Is a Rear-End Accident Worth?
The value of your case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, the impact on your daily life, and who was at fault. Possible damages include:
- Medical expenses (past and future),
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability,
- Pain and suffering,
- Emotional distress, and
- Property damage.
The settlement value of a case is often limited by the amount of available insurance. Therefore it is critical to identify all insurance policies that may provide coverage.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best way to obtain an estimate is to speak with an experienced attorney for a rear-end collision case who can review the details of your situation.
What If I Already Got a Settlement Offer?
It might seem tempting to accept a fast offer from the insurance company. But be careful. These early offers are often very low and made before the full extent of your injuries is known. Once you accept, you typically can’t go back for more, even if your condition worsens.
We carefully review all settlement offers and provide you with honest feedback. If it’s fair, we’ll tell you. If it’s not, we’ll fight for more.
When Should I Call a Lawyer?
You don’t need to wait for things to get complicated. In fact, the sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better. Early legal guidance helps:
- Preserve important evidence,
- Prevent costly mistakes in communication with insurers, and
- Ensure proper documentation of your medical care.
If you’ve been in a rear-end accident in the Richmond area, Merrick Brock is here to help you make informed decisions from the start.
Why Choose Merrick Brock?
We built our careers representing insurance companies. Now, we leverage that inside knowledge to advocate for those who need it most. At Merrick Brock, you don’t get passed off to a case manager or junior associate. You work directly with trial-tested attorneys who take your case personally.
Our team:
- Brings decades of litigation and courtroom experience;
- Knows how insurers think and how to counter their strategies;
- Doesn’t back down when the offer isn’t fair; and
- Keeps things clear, honest, and client-focused throughout the entire process.
We’re not a flashy firm. We’re a results-driven one.
Talk to a Richmond Rear-End Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been rear-ended in Richmond and are wondering what to do next, start by talking to someone who will give you an honest assessment.
At Merrick Brock, PLLC, we provide experienced and strategic legal representation to individuals injured in rear-end collisions. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps.
Call Merrick Brock today to speak directly with an attorney who knows how to handle rear-end accident claims the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rear-End Car Accidents
Still unsure whether you need a lawyer or how the process works? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients after a rear-end crash:
Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Collision?
In most cases, there is a presumption that the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is at fault. However, this presumption can be challenged in certain situations, such as multi-car pileups, unexpected stops, or if the lead driver had non-functioning brake lights. An attorney can help you prove liability and protect your rights.
What If I Was the Rear Driver but Believe the Crash Wasn’t My Fault?
You still have options. If the lead vehicle stopped suddenly without warning or was driving erratically, you may be able to challenge who was at fault. Every case is different, and a lawyer can evaluate the circumstances to determine if you have a valid defense.
Can I File a Claim If I Only Have Minor Injuries?
Yes. Even seemingly minor injuries can worsen over time or result in lasting symptoms. It’s important to document everything, seek medical treatment, and consult an attorney before accepting any settlement.
We know that minor impact does not mean minor injury (but that is what the insurance company will argue).
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have coverage under your own auto policy. Virginia drivers often carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, which can provide compensation in the event of an accident involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Claim?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Virginia. Missing that deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, so it’s essential to act quickly.