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Orange County Rear-End Accident Attorney

Managing Partner

16 min read
16 min read
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

A rear-end accident is where a vehicle crashes into the rear of another vehicle.

Of all the different types of accidents that can occur, rear-end collisions happen more often than any other type according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In fact, they account for approximately 29 percent of all crashes, and approximately 7.2 percent of all fatal crashes according to the Insurance Information Institute. Because rear-end crashes happen so frequently, there’s a good chance you’ll become victim to it and require legal representation.

If you have recently been involved in a rear-end car collision, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an Orange County rear-end accident attorney at the Text Kevin Accident Attorneys to learn about how we can help you maximize your settlement. Call (888) 965-3827 for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Orange County today.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Should You Do When You’re Rear-Ended?

After you are in a rear-end car accident take the following steps to preserve your claim:

Call the Police

The very first thing you should do after being rear-ended is to call the police. If the police cannot, or will not, come to the scene of the accident, then go to the nearest police station and complete a report yourself.

Gather Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers, including their full name, address, and phone number; their insurance company and policy number; and their driver’s license number, license plate number, and VIN.

Take Photos

Use your cell phone to take pictures of the accident scene, including your vehicle and other vehicles that were involved. You should also take photos of the documentation you obtained from Step 2 above, such as their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.

See a Doctor

The extent and degree of injury may not be readily apparent due to adrenaline. Even if you think you’re okay in the moment, it’s absolutely critical that you seek immediate medical attention to at least get checked out.

Notify Your Insurance

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. However, do not provide a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers before speaking with a rear-end attorney.

Contact a Lawyer

Before speaking with the other driver’s insurance company, seek the advice of a skilled Orange County rear-end accident attorney. Even a seemingly simple accident can quickly get complicated.

Who Is Responsible for a Rear-End Accident?

In almost every rear-end accident, the driver that rear-ended the car in front of them is the one who was placed at fault. If there’s a Traffic Collision Report, you’ll probably notice that they were cited for violating California Vehicle Code Section 22350—unsafe speed, or California Vehicle Code Section 21703—following too closely (tailgating).

Sometimes the driver in the rear will try to blame the driver in the front for braking suddenly. However, the rear driver will still probably be placed at fault for the accident. This is because the rear driver has a duty to leave enough space between their car and the car in front such that they can safely stop without incident.

There are some exceptions, of course.

  • The front driver might share some responsibility if they failed to activate their emergency lights, even if their car was disabled.
  • The front driver might also share some fault if the accident happens at night and their brake lights were out.
  • The front driver might share some responsibility if their car was drivable but they chose to leave it sitting in the middle of the road.

We’ve seen this third scenario many times and it all comes down to how long the car was sitting there. If the front driver left their car in the middle of the road for several minutes before you rear-ended them, then it’s your own fault because you had plenty of time to react and avoid the accident. In insurance company lingo, they would say you breached your duty to maintain a proper lookout.

What Injuries Can You Get From Being Rear-Ended?

Here are some of the most common injuries we see from rear-end collisions in Orange County, CA:

Whiplash

Whiplash is by far the most common injury that occurs from rear-end crashes. A rear-end crash causes your head and neck to move violently forward and back. Rear-end crashes often catch the victim unaware so that they’re not able to brace themselves either. This causes your neck and back to move more quickly, increasing the severity of the injury. Whiplash is more serious than the public gives it credit for. The National Safety Council estimates that more than 80% of people who suffer from whiplash injuries will experience pain that lasts longer than a week, and more than half will have soreness and pain that lasts longer than a year.

Seat Belt Injuries

In high speed rear-end accidents, seat belts can save your life on the one hand, and cause you injuries on the other. Seatbelts sometimes cause bruising and lacerations to the torso, chest, and neck. It’s even possible to sustain internal organ injuries from seatbelts, or a fractured sternum, or broken ribs.

Airbag Injuries

Airbags are useful in preventing serious injuries, but they can also cause injuries of their own just like seatbelts. The most common injuries are burns to the face, scalp, or hands, as well as fractured noses and ribs.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Sometimes the violent back-and-forth movement can cause more than just whiplash, such as a spinal cord injury, bulging discs, herniated discs, and fractured vertebrae that result in temporary or permanent paralysis.

Head Injuries

Rear-end accidents can cause serious head injuries, even when the airbags deploy. Lacerations, bruising, swelling, concussions, and bleeding in the brain are all possible in high-speed rear-end collisions. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you sustain a head injury, it’s important to look for these important signs of traumatic brain injury (TBI):

  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Problems with speech
  • Dizziness or loss of balance
  • Blurred vision or ringing in the ears
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Loss of coordination

Scars and Disfigurement

Lacerations to the face and other parts of the body can sometimes cause open wounds that need sutures to be closed. This can result in disfiguring scars.

Catastrophic Injuries

Paralysis, loss of a limb, blindness, deafness, and other catastrophic injuries can all result from a rear-end accident. If you’ve been seriously injured in a rear-end collision, it’s important to work with experienced Orange County rear-end accident lawyers who know how to present your case to the insurance company in a manner that will maximize your financial recovery.

What Happens To Your Body In A Rear-End Collision?

In a rear-end accident, the momentum from the rear vehicle gets transferred to the front vehicle. The front vehicle and the person inside of it absorb that momentum, which forces them to fly forward. Then, after being suddenly flung forward, your body will violently snap back against the seat and the headrest. This can cause injuries throughout your body. Your body stops moving, but your brain doesn’t and it can slam up against your skull as a result.

It’s really important that you get checked out by a medical doctor immediately after a rear-end accident, even if you don’t feel any pain right away due to the adrenaline running through your body. Once the adrenaline wears off, your pain levels may increase. By seeking immediate medical attention, you have a better chance of recovery and you’re able to show to the insurance company that you’re being proactive in treating your injuries as opposed to letting them get worse by not taking care of them right away.

What Compensation Can You Get For Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions?

There are two types of compensation available for victims injured in rear-end car accidents in California: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages include the cost of past and future medical treatment, past and future loss of income, and any out-of-pocket expenses you might incur, such as transportation costs and prescription medication.

Noneconomic damages include compensation for your physical pain and mental suffering.

Although countless factors have to be considered when determining the value of your injury claim, it will greatly depend on the severity of your injuries and the cost of your medical treatment.

Local Result

$100,000 Settlement Awarded to Man for Aggravated Neck Injury from Rear-End Collision by Distracted Defendant

Case Type

Car Accident

Location

California

Settlement

$100,000.00

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Living in Orange County, I come across accidents every day during my commute to Irvine and on my way back home to Lake Forest. While I can’t assist everyone on the spot, in my role as the Intake Manager, I do have the opportunity to be that crucial first point of contact, providing assistance and alleviating stress for those uncertain bout their next steps.

– Mike Buhler

Intake Manager at Text Kevin

– Mike Buhler
Intake Manager at Text Kevin

Get The Help of Our Orange County Rear-End Accident Attorneys

There are approximately 1.7 million rear-end accidents each year in the United States. However, just because they’re frequent doesn’t mean they’re not dangerous. Of the 1.7 million rear-end accidents that occur each year, about 500,000 people are injured and another 17,000 people die.

As rear-end accident injury lawyers, we regularly represent the interests of victims who have been treated unfairly by an insurance company. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys is committed to handling your injury claim from start to finish and will fight to make sure that you receive the money you deserve. If you’ve been injured as a result of a rear-end crash, contact the Text Kevin Accident Attorneys to speak with one of our Orange County car accident attorneys at (888) 965-3827.

ORANGE COUNTY OFFICE LOCATIONS

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Anaheim Office

617 S Harbor Blvd, Unit A

Anaheim, CA 92805

Santa Ana Office

106 W 4th St, Ste 315

Santa Ana, CA, 92701

Irvine Office


7700 Irvine Center Dr, Ste 400
Irvine, CA 92618

Orange County Car Accident FAQs

How far is Orange County from LA?

The distance between central Orange County (e.g., Santa Ana) and downtown Los Angeles is approximately 30 to 40 miles, but actual distances may vary based on specific locations within each county.

How many people live in Orange County?

As of January 2022, Orange County, California, had an estimated population of around 3.2 million people.

How many cities are in Orange County?

As of January 2022, Orange County, California, consists of 34 incorporated cities.

When is the Orange County Fair?

The Orange County Fair typically takes place during the summer months. However, specific dates may vary from year to year.

Where is the Orange County Airport in California?

The main airport serving Orange County, California, is John Wayne Airport (SNA). It is located in Santa Ana, approximately 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles and about 2 miles from the city center of Irvine. John Wayne Airport is a major airport in the region, providing domestic flights and serving as a gateway to and from Orange County.

How big is Orange County?

Orange County, California, covers an area of approximately 948 square miles (2,455 square kilometers).

Orange County Points of Interest
Disneyland Park

A world-famous theme park located in Anaheim, offering a magical experience with various themed lands, attractions, and entertainment.

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802 Website
Knott’s Berry Farm

A popular amusement park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and the famous Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant.

8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620 Website
Huntington Beach Pier

An iconic pier in Huntington Beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, sandy beaches, and excellent surfing conditions.

325 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Website
Balboa Island

A charming island community in Newport Beach, known for its scenic harbor, waterfront homes, and the Balboa Fun Zone.

206 Marine Avenue, Newport Beach, CA 92662 Website
Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Home to the Los Angeles Angels baseball team, this stadium offers an exciting venue for sports enthusiasts.

2000 E Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806 Website
Mission San Juan Capistrano

A historic Spanish mission, known as the "Jewel of the Missions," featuring beautiful gardens, preserved adobe buildings, and the famous swallows.

26801 Old Mission Rd, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Website

Kevin received both his bachelor’s degree and law degree from the University of California, Irvine. He is the managing partner of Text Kevin Accident Attorneys and is recognized as a standout in plaintiffs’ litigation for personal injury law by Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected legal peer-review publisher. Kevin has written for several law magazines and is an award-winning car accident lawyer in California.

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More winning, less hassle with us

Transform car accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Get support for your injury claim
  • Secure compensation with proven success
  • Strategize to win and maximize your value
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Kevin Crockett, Managing Partner

"Experience unity at our firm as I bring legal teams together for seamless collaboration and communication, ensuring successful navigation of car accident cases."

Answers, support, & solutions all in one place

Transform personal injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Evaluate medical records for details and severity
  • Negotiate settlements with insurance companies
  • Represent clients in court for litigation
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Kelly Gales, Attorney

"Our legal team significantly accelerates personal injury claims, reducing delays when you choose us for your case."

The complete legal solution

Transform truck accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Investigate liability to determine fault
  • Pursue maximum compensation from insurers
  • Navigate complex regulations for successful claims
Kayla Johns
Kayla Johns, Case Manager

“At Text Kevin, we keep clients informed with crucial updates, paving the way for successful resolutions in every case we handle.”

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Mike Buhler, Intake Manager

Streamline communication with insurers and eliminate headaches when you partner with us for your injury claim.”

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Transform wrongful death challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

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You can easily share documents and photos with our team, and we’ll handle the rest for a seamless resolution of your case.”

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Transform bicycle accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

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“With Text Kevin, you can regain lost hours managing claims yourself. We not only save you time, but expedite the process.”

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Manage most any type of claim

Transform catastrophic injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Get a free consult for potential compensation
  • Establish a robust legal strategy
  • Pursue litigation avenues for your injury claim
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Stay connected throughout your case with quick and easy text communication, ensuring regular updates and timely alerts on the next steps.”

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Transform pedestrian accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

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We simplify your injury claim by organizing your case and narrating your story to the insurance company so you don’t have to.”

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Never face legal battles alone again

Transform brain injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Maximize compensation for traumatic brain injuries
  • Swiftly resolve cases for financial relief
  • Experience compassionate guidance for your TBI
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Kevin Crockett, Managing Partner

We help visualize what results you want from your injury case and adjust our strategies to help you achieve it.”

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Set your path to legal success

Transform spinal cord injury challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Optimize compensation for spinal cord injury victims
  • Navigate legal intricacies with effective representation
  • Offer empathetic support throughout your recovery
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Craig Crockett, Partner

Leverage our legal team to passionately advocate for you and witness us fight to achieve the results you’re looking for.”

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Collaborate on solutions together

Transform Uber accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Drive your Uber accident claim to success
  • Chart a clear route through insurance complexities 
  • Cruise through legal challenges with our support
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Kelly Gales, Attorney

Initiate and schedule meetings instantly with our legal team, ensuring prompt notifications on the progress of your case at every step.”

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Transform DUI accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Championing justice for DUI crash survivors 
  • Crafting powerful cases for injury compensation 
  • Hold responsible parties accountable for their actions
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Craig Crockett, Partner

"At Text Kevin, we value your time and expedite claim processes, providing efficient and exceptional service."

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Teamwork makes claims work every time

Transform hit & run accident challenges into triumphs with our dedicated legal support.

  • Swift investigation of unidentified perpetrators  
  • Skillful navigation through complex legal processes
  • Hold accountable those who flee the scene
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Mike Buhler, Intake Manager

“Here, we're all about teamwork, ensuring seamless collaboration among legal teams for successful case outcomes.”

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“Crockett and his team made my first car crash experience so much easier than I expected. Thanks team!”

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Case Results

Explore our showcased victories in personal injury, where we turned challenges into triumphs for our clients.

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$2.75M

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2020

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