Rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of car accidents nationwide. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that nearly 30% of all crashes involve one car striking another from behind.
In Madison, Wisconsin, rear-end crashes are common, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t serious. Even at low speeds, a rear-end collision can cause painful injuries, weeks away from work, and a mountain of unexpected bills.
At Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C., we’ve spent decades helping people across Wisconsin put their lives back together after suffering a personal injury. Our attorneys have the experience and resources to help you hold negligent drivers accountable.
If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end crash in Madison, WI, we’re here to fight for you. Contact us today at (608) 256-8356 to schedule your free consultation with a Madison rear-end crash lawyer.
Why Choose Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. for Help After a Rear-End Crash in Madison, WI?
Not all law firms are the same. At Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C., we’ve built our reputation on trust, results, and personal attention.
Our Madison personal injury lawyers offer:
- Proven results: Over $100 million recovered for Wisconsin families.
- Experience you can count on: Our attorneys have 140 years of combined experience.
- Respected locally and nationally: Named among the 2024 Best of Madison, Top Rated Local Firms in Wisconsin, and 12 Best Madison Personal Injury Attorneys.
- Award-winning advocacy: Attorney Steve Eisenberg has been recognized by Super Lawyers, America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators, and The National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
When you hire us, you get more than a lawyer — you get a dedicated team that understands the challenges you’re facing and won’t back down from insurance companies. Call us today to speak with our skilled Madison car accident attorneys.
How Rear-End Collisions Impact Daily Life in Madison
Rear-end crashes may sound like “minor” accidents, but anyone who’s lived through one knows better. Beyond the immediate injuries, these collisions can ripple through your life in surprising ways.
Rear-end accidents can cause:
- Commuting disruptions: Losing your car for weeks can throw your schedule into chaos.
- Healthcare strain: Many victims require ongoing physical therapy with multiple weekly appointments that can be difficult to juggle.
- Seasonal challenges: Winters in Madison are tough enough without chronic pain. Slippery sidewalks, snow shoveling, and icy roads become even riskier.
- Lost community experiences: From Badgers games at Camp Randall to summer events at the Square, lingering injuries can keep you from enjoying the things that make Madison feel like home.
Our Madison car accident attorneys recognize that rear-end collisions cause real hardships that deserve recognition when you seek compensation.
What Causes Rear-End Crashes in Madison?
While every accident is different, most rear-end crashes can be traced to preventable driving behavior, such as:
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, adjusting GPS)
- Speeding or aggressive maneuvers
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to adjust to snow, ice, or fog
- Mechanical issues, such as brake failure
Holding negligent drivers accountable helps accident victims recover their damages and also makes Madison’s roads safer for everyone.
Common Injuries After a Rear-End Crash
Even when vehicles are traveling at low speeds, the sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can cause significant harm. The impact can force your body to move unnaturally, leading to a range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent.
It’s crucial to understand the potential physical consequences of these accidents and the long-lasting effects they can have on your health and well-being.
Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck sprains
- Herniated discs and back injuries
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones of the ribs, arms, or legs
- Chest injuries from seatbelts and airbags
- Soft tissue damage
Because symptoms don’t always appear right away, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately. Getting medical care is important for your health and also for creating an official record of your injuries that could strengthen your claim. Our Madison car accident lawyers can work to investigate and make sure all your injuries are accounted for in your compensation claim.
Medical Documentation of Rear-End Accident Injuries
Medical documentation can help establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Without it, you may have a more difficult time getting the compensation you need for treatment and recovery.
Early medical documentation can also challenge claims that the accident did not cause your injuries. Ignoring seemingly minor discomfort can lead to chronic issues, and without a medical record, it might be more difficult to prove the link between the collision and your pain.
Our Madison car accident attorneys can use your medical records and consult medical experts—such as doctors, therapists, or specialists—to help build a solid case.
What Compensation Is Available to Madison Rear-End Crash Victims?
A successful claim can help you move forward by covering both financial and personal losses. In most rear-end crash cases, accident victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages.
These can compensate for:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In rare cases, Wisconsin courts may also award punitive damages when a driver’s behavior is especially reckless, such as driving drunk.
Can I Recover Damages if I’m Partially at Fault for a Rear-End Collision in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages as long as you’re less than 51% at fault. However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Insurance companies often try to exaggerate a victim’s role in a crash. Our Madison personal injury attorneys know these tactics well and will push back to ensure you’re treated fairly.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Wisconsin?
Under Wisconsin law, you typically have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing the deadline could cost you the right to recover compensation in court, so it’s important to act quickly.
Call Our Madison Rear-End Crash Attorneys Today for a Free Consultation
At Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C., our team is proud to stand up for accident victims across Madison and throughout Wisconsin. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for every dollar you’re entitled to.
For more information, contact our experienced Madison rear-end crash lawyers today to schedule your free consultation.