McDonough Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer
Rear-end collisions happen suddenly and with almost always no time for victims to react. If you were rear-ended by another driver, the accident may have been caused by their own distraction and carelessness. When another driver causes your injuries, they could be held liable in civil court for the damages they caused. If you want to seek justice and compensation for your losses, you should reach out to an experienced McDonough rear-end car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. A seasoned car wreck attorney could review your case and build your claim against the wrongdoers involved.
Causes of Rear-End Car Wrecks
In most rear-end collisions, there is little the victim could have done to avoid their wreck. All drivers have a duty to drive safely and to adhere to the rules of the road. When someone does not uphold this duty, accidents may be more likely to occur. A McDonough rear-end car accident attorney could review an injured party’s case to determine who is liable and how they were negligent. Rear-end car wrecks are most commonly the result of negligent drivers who may have been:
- Speeding
- Disobeying posted traffic lights or signs
- Operating their vehicle while distracted
- In heavy traffic
- Experiencing road rage
- Having a mechanical failure
- Fatigued
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Rear-End Car Accidents with Multiple Defendants
Some rear-end car accidents involve more than one defendant. By working with a knowledgeable rear-end collision lawyer in McDonough, plaintiffs could work to ensure that their lawsuit includes all applicable defendants. Parties who could be found responsible and legally at fault in a rear-end car accident may include:
- Other drivers on the road
- The plaintiff or the defendant’s car manufacturer
- Branches of the local government who control road maintenance and repairs
Under the Official Code of Georgia §51-12-33, there is no right of contribution among defendants in a single case. Each defendant could be liable for their proportionate share of the financial damages to the plaintiff.
A judge or jury decides what percentage of liability each defendant should be responsible for, and each party must pay damages to the plaintiff accordingly. For example, if the jury awards the plaintiff $100,000 in damages, and one defendant is 60 percent at fault, they would pay $60,000 of those damages to the plaintiff.
If one defendant reaches a settlement agreement with the plaintiff, but others do not, the court may not permit set-offs. However, when determining the remaining defendant’s degree of fault, the court considers the settlement.
Hire a McDonough Rear-End Car Accident Attorney
Going through the legal process after a devastating car wreck could be difficult if you do not have proper legal counsel. As a result, it is in your best interest to speak with an attorney immediately following your accident. By hiring a qualified McDonough rear-end car accident lawyer, you could relieve yourself of any legal burdens you may have and focus on your recovery. Call today to schedule your initial case consultation.
