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What to Do After Being Rear Ended

Abrahamson Law Office Jan. 31, 2025

Being rear-ended is one of the most common types of car accidents. While these incidents often seem minor at first, they can lead to serious injuries, vehicle damage, and long-lasting effects for those involved.  

At Abrahamson Law Office, we understand that the moments following a rear-end collision can be overwhelming and confusing. Here, we’ve compiled a guide to help you understand the steps you should take immediately after being rear-ended in a car accident. Following these recommendations can help you protect your health, your rights, and your ability to pursue fair compensation. 

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Assess Injuries  

The first and most important step after being rear-ended is to make sure everyone involved is safe. If your car is still operable, move it to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road, to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.  

After ensuring the safety of your vehicle, check yourself, any passengers, and the other driver for injuries. Rear-end collisions are notorious for causing whiplash, back pain, and other injuries that may not be immediately apparent, often due to adrenaline masking the symptoms. Even if you feel fine, it’s critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out any hidden injuries.  

Step 2: Call the Authorities  

Call law enforcement to the scene of the accident and request paramedics if anyone involved reports an injury. The police will create an official accident report, which will include details such as the time, location, and apparent cause of the collision. This document can serve as vital evidence when determining fault and pursuing a personal injury claim.  

When speaking to the officers, it's important to remember to stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements. 

Step 3: Exchange Information  

After you've called law enforcement to the scene, exchange information with the other driver. Be sure to gather the following details:  

  • The other driver’s name, address, and contact information  

  • Their driver’s license number and license plate number  

  • Insurance company name and policy number  

  • Details about the other driver’s vehicle, such as the make, model, and color  

While exchanging information, remain courteous and avoid unnecessary confrontation. It’s best to focus on collecting the facts rather than discussing fault or liability.  

Step 4: Document the Scene  

It’s often said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this remains true for car accidents. Take photos and notes of the scene to preserve crucial evidence of the accident. Some primary items you should photograph or write down include:  

  • The position and condition of both vehicles  

  • Skid marks, debris, or damage in the surrounding area  

  • Any visible injuries you’ve sustained  

  • Traffic signs, signals, or road conditions  

  • Weather or lighting conditions  

These details can help reconstruct the events of the accident and strengthen your claim when presented to insurance companies or in court.  

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention  

Even if you initially feel fine after the accident, it’s imperative to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Rear-end collisions can often result in non-visible injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue damage. The symptoms of these injuries can often take hours or even days to manifest.  

Have your doctor conduct a thorough medical evaluation to document any injuries and connect them to the rear-end collision. This medical record will serve as essential evidence when filing a claim for compensation.  

By seeking immediate treatment, you’re not only looking out for your health; you’re showing that you take the accident seriously. This can influence how insurance companies and courts view your case.  

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company  

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Many insurance policies have time limits for reporting incidents, so delaying this step could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. 

When speaking to your insurance adjuster, stick to the facts and avoid making statements that could be used against you. Keep in mind that insurance adjusters are not on your side—they are employed by the insurance company to minimize payouts.  

If you’re unsure about how to communicate with an insurance company, we recommend consulting with an experienced car accident attorney before discussing the details of your claim.  

Step 7: Avoid Posting on Social Media  

It may be tempting to post about your experience on social media, but doing so can often harm your case. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys often scour social media for evidence to dispute claims. Even an innocent photo or comment can be taken out of context and potentially used against you in court. 

To protect your rights, refrain from posting about the accident or your injuries until your case is resolved.  

Step 8: Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney  

If you’ve sustained serious injuries or significant vehicle damage, it may be in your best interest to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can guide you through the legal system and fight for fair compensation on your behalf. They can also handle communication with insurance companies and make sure your rights are protected. 

It’s essential to choose a reputable attorney with experience handling car accident cases specifically. They will have the knowledge and resources to build a 

At Abrahamson Law Office, we are committed to helping you understand your rights and options. We provide personalized legal guidance to help you pursue the compensation you need.  

Protect Your Rights After a Rear End Collision 

Rear-end collisions can be deceptively complicated, especially when dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and possible disputes over fault. At Abrahamson Law Office, we have the knowledge and experience to handle your case with care and diligence, so you can focus on your recovery.  

Don’t wait to take action. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward securing compensation and justice. Located in Omaha, Nebraska, our attorneys serve clients in Douglas County, Sarpy County, Saunders County, Washington County, Otoe, and Dodge County.