Rear-end crashes happen fast. One moment you’re sitting at a red light on Lancaster Avenue, and the next, a jolt sends your car forward and your body backward. You might be left with pain, a damaged car, and questions about what to do next. If someone else caused the crash, you shouldn’t have to carry the costs alone. A Fort Worth rear-end accident injury lawyer from AMS Law Group can help you hold the responsible driver accountable.
Getting legal help after a rear-end accident matters. Insurance companies sometimes push quick settlements that don’t cover everything you’ve lost. Legal representation gives you the support to demand more than the minimum. You don’t have to go through this on your own.
Contact AMS Law Group for a free consultation. We’re ready to review your case, answer your questions, and explain how we can help.
Table of Contents
What Are the Most Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Fort Worth?
Rear-end crashes are some of the most common accidents in Fort Worth. Many happen in heavy traffic, during poor weather, or when a driver isn’t paying attention. Here’s a breakdown of what usually causes them.
Distracted Driving and Cell Phone Use
Many drivers try to multitask behind the wheel. Some send texts while driving on I-30 or check GPS directions without pulling over. Looking away for even two seconds is enough to cause a crash. Rear-end accidents often happen when a driver doesn’t see that traffic has slowed or stopped.
Following Too Closely (Tailgating)
Tailgating turns into a problem when traffic slows down. If a driver on University Drive leaves little space between cars, there’s not enough time to stop when the lead vehicle brakes. Drivers are expected to leave a safe following distance, especially during rush hour.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding shortens reaction time. If a driver is going too fast on Bryant Irvin Road and traffic stops suddenly, hitting the brakes might not prevent a crash. Some drivers also weave between lanes or ride too close behind others, raising the odds of a rear-end collision.
Weather and Road Conditions
Fort Worth doesn’t see much snow, but rainstorms can cause slick roads and poor visibility. On wet roads like those near Bluebonnet Circle, cars need more time to stop. If a driver doesn’t adjust speed for the conditions, a rear-end crash can happen.
Vehicle Defects and Mechanical Failures
Sometimes, faulty brakes, worn tires, or engine issues cause accidents. A driver might press the brakes and realize too late they aren’t working right. In these cases, the driver, a mechanic, or even the vehicle manufacturer could be responsible.
Understanding Texas Rear-End Accident Laws
Texas law has specific rules that affect rear-end crash cases. These laws influence how liability is decided, how long you have to file, and how much insurance must cover.
Presumption of Fault Rules
In Texas, the driver who hits another car from behind is often blamed. The idea is that the rear driver should be watching the road and leaving enough space. But that’s not always the whole story, and exceptions do exist.
Comparative Negligence in Texas
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re partly at fault, your recovery can be reduced. But as long as you’re less than 51 percent responsible, you can still recover part of your damages. For example, if your brake lights were out, but the other driver was texting, both might share blame.
Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims
You usually have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit for personal injury claims. Waiting too long can mean losing your chance to hold the other driver accountable. Starting early helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Required Insurance Coverage in Texas
Texas law requires drivers to carry liability insurance. The minimum covers $30,000 per person in injuries, $60,000 per crash, and $25,000 in property damage. In many cases, these limits aren’t enough, especially if injuries are serious.
Who Is Liable in a Fort Worth Rear-End Collision?
Liability in rear-end crashes might seem simple, but it can depend on the details. Sometimes the rear driver is at fault, but not always.
The Presumption Against the Rear Driver
In most cases, the rear driver is presumed to be responsible. If a driver plows into your stopped car on Camp Bowie Boulevard, they’ll usually be blamed. But if you can prove they were doing everything right and you made an unexpected move, that presumption may not hold.
Exceptions to Standard Liability Rules
There are exceptions. If a lead driver cuts someone off, stops suddenly for no reason, or has non-working brake lights, they might carry some or all of the blame. Investigating the crash scene and vehicle conditions helps determine who’s truly at fault.
Multiple Vehicle Accidents and Chain Reactions
In crashes involving three or more vehicles, things get more complicated. One impact can cause a domino effect, especially on busy roads like Beach Street during rush hour. Investigators look at each driver’s actions to sort out fault.
Commercial Vehicle and Fleet Liability
When the vehicle that caused the crash belongs to a company, the company itself may be liable. Delivery trucks, rideshare vehicles, or work vans must follow safety rules. Companies may be responsible for poor maintenance, lack of training, or pushing drivers to meet unsafe schedules.
Types of Injuries from Rear-End Accidents
Rear-end crashes may seem minor at first, but they can cause lasting injuries. Some symptoms show up right away, while others take time to appear.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
The sudden forward-and-back motion can stretch or tear muscles in the neck. Whiplash often causes stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion. Even at low speeds, this type of injury is common.
Back and Spinal Cord Damage
The impact can damage discs or nerves in the spine. Some people experience ongoing back pain, numbness, or even limited mobility. More serious cases may involve herniated discs or spinal cord injury.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
If your head hits the headrest, steering wheel, or even jerks too quickly, it can lead to a concussion or more severe brain trauma. Symptoms might include confusion, memory problems, or dizziness.
Psychological Trauma and PTSD
Not all injuries are visible. After a violent crash, some people have trouble sleeping or reliving the moment. Fear of driving again is common. Mental health treatment may be part of recovery.
Delayed Onset Injuries
Some symptoms don’t appear right away. Pain, swelling, or stiffness may take hours or even days to show. That’s why seeing a doctor early is so important, even if you feel okay at first.
How Can a Fort Worth Rear-End Accident Lawyer Help You?
Having a lawyer gives you someone on your side who knows how to push back against insurance companies. Here’s how AMS Law Group can help after your crash.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our team works to collect police reports, witness statements, video footage, and photos. We visit the crash site, talk to those involved, and review your car’s damage to build a full picture of what happened.
Medical Documentation and Expert Witnesses
Strong medical records link your injuries directly to the crash. We work with doctors and sometimes other professionals to support your claim. This helps prove that your treatment is both necessary and connected to the accident.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurers often try to settle fast and for less than you need. We handle those talks and don’t back down when they undervalue your losses. We push for full compensation, not quick deals that leave you short.
Maximizing Your Compensation
We look at the full scope of your damages, both now and down the line. That includes ongoing care, future lost income, and other long-term effects. Our goal is to pursue every dollar you’re owed based on what the crash cost you.
Court Representation if Necessary
If the other driver’s insurer won’t make a reasonable offer, we’re ready to take your case to court. Insurance companies know we prepare cases for trial, and that often makes them more likely to settle fairly.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Rear-End Accident?
Rear-end crashes cause losses that go far beyond just the damage to your vehicle. Here are the types of compensation we seek for our clients.
Medical Expenses and Future Treatment Costs
Emergency care, physical therapy, surgeries, and medications add up. If your treatment continues over months or years, those future bills count too.
Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity
If the crash kept you from work or affected your ability to do your job, you may be entitled to recover those losses. That includes lost pay, missed promotions, and reduced income over time.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life all matter. If you can’t pick up your child, sleep comfortably, or enjoy daily life as you once did, we account for that too.
Property Damage and Vehicle Replacement
Repairs, towing, and car rentals can be expensive. If your car was totaled, we help you recover its fair market value.
Punitive Damages in Severe Cases
If the at-fault driver acted recklessly, such as driving under the influence, punitive damages may apply. These are meant to punish especially dangerous conduct and deter similar behavior.
Working with Insurance Companies After Your Accident
Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating. They often work to limit what they pay. Here’s what to expect and how to protect yourself.
Understanding Your Own Insurance Coverage
Your own policy may offer help through personal injury protection (PIP) or uninsured motorist coverage. We review all available policies to uncover additional options for recovery.
Dealing with the At-Fault Driver’s Insurer
The other driver’s insurance company may call you soon after the crash. Don’t give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer. What you say can be used to limit your claim.
Common Insurance Company Tactics to Avoid
They may blame you for part of the crash, question your medical treatment, or offer a low settlement right away. These are common tricks designed to save money, not help you recover.
When to Accept vs. Reject Settlement Offers
You don’t have to take the first offer. In fact, most early offers don’t come close to covering the full cost of your losses. We evaluate each offer and advise you on whether it’s fair based on the evidence.
FAQs About Fort Worth Rear-End Collisions
What should I do after a rear-end crash in Fort Worth?
Call the police, get medical care, and take photos if you can. Exchange information with the other driver. Then call a lawyer to review your rights.
Should I see a doctor even if I don’t feel injured immediately?
Yes. Some injuries don’t show up right away. Seeing a doctor creates a record of your condition and helps protect your claim.
How much does it cost to hire a rear-end accident attorney?
At AMS Law Group, we only collect fees if we recover money for you. Your consultation is free.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may be able to recover through your own uninsured motorist coverage. We’ll explore every available option.
Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Yes. Texas law doesn’t bar recovery for that alone, though your damages may be reduced. Each case depends on its facts.
Contact Our Fort Worth Rear-End Accident Lawyer Now
Rear-end crashes cause real problems, including lost income, lingering pain, expensive bills, and more. You shouldn’t have to deal with that on your own, especially when someone else caused the accident. AMS Law Group has helped many Fort Worth residents recover after being hit from behind. We’re ready to listen to your story and explain how we can help you move forward.
Call (888) 960-8363 now for a free consultation. Let us review your case and talk through your options. You don’t owe us anything unless we recover money for you. Get answers. Get support. Get started today.