Mitch | November 12, 2024 | Alabama Law, Car Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, Personal Injury, Truck Accidents
For over 70 years, Lattof & Lattof attorneys in Mobile have seen how a rear-end collision can change lives. National data shows that in 2021, over 2.3 million Americans experienced rear-end collisions. Out of those, 576,000 people were injured, and 2,279 tragically lost their lives. We have a rear-end accident attorney in Mobile Alabama who regularly meets victims and who understand their unique challenges.
Real Stories From A Lattof & Lattof Rear-End Accident Attorney In Mobile Alabama
Mary, a local teacher, was rear-ended while stopped at a red light on Government Street in Mobile. “I thought I was fine at first,” she recalls. “I even went to work the next day. But by the end of the week, I could barely turn my head to check my blind spot.” Often what seems like a minor accident leads to months of physical therapy and significant medical bills.
It’s important to understand that the types of injuries caused by rear end collisions may not show up immediately. It’s not uncommon for there to be several days or even a couple of weeks before symptoms appear after being rear-ended. Whatever you do, don’t tell the investigating officer, insurance adjuster, or anyone – that you’re “fine”. For rear-end collisions, it’s simply too early to tell and making a statement like that at the scene can come back and haunt you later.
The Hidden Dangers of “Just a Fender Bender”
Insurance companies often label rear-end collisions as minor, but our experience representing Mobile accident victims tells another story. Take Ronald, a longshoreman at the Alabama State Docks, for example. He was rear-ended on the Bayway during his morning commute. The insurance adjuster called it a “minor tap.” However, the impact caused a herniated disc, requiring surgery and six months off work.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has documented the violent forces at work in these crashes. When another vehicle strikes yours from behind, your body undergoes a complex series of movements: first, you’re thrown backward into your seat, then your upper body violently whips forward before slamming back again. This forceful motion can cause severe injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Common Injuries: More Serious Than You Might Think
Consider Cindy’s case: she was stopped at the intersection of Airport Boulevard and UniversityBoulevard when a distracted driver hit her from behind going 25 mph. The initial emergency room visit showed no broken bones or significant injury. Within weeks however, she was suffering from debilitating headaches and neck pain that affected her ability to work. Her whiplash injury, initially dismissed by the insurance company, ultimately required extensive treatment and forced her to modify her entire lifestyle.
The most frequent rear-end injury we see in our Mobile offices is whiplash, but that term doesn’t reflect the serious nature of that injury. Whiplash occurs when the neck’s delicate structures—muscles, ligaments, nerves, and vertebrae—are damaged by the sudden back-and-forth motion. Some insurance adjusters downplay these injuries, but we’ve seen whiplash clients suffer symptoms lasting months or even years.
Long-Term Impact: A Truck Driver’s Story
One of our most memorable cases involved James, a long-haul trucker who was rear-ended while waiting to turn into his delivery destination on Rangeline Road in the Theodore area. The initial impact seemed modest, but the injuries affected his ability to keep his commercial driver’s license. “I never thought a ‘small’ accident could end my entire career,” James told us. Through proper documentation and representation, we helped James secure compensation for all of his medical bills and lost earning potential.
The Complex Nature of Spinal Injuries
Morris, a retired veteran living in west Mobile, came to us after developing severe back pain following what seemed like a minor rear-end collision in a shopping center parking lot. What started as mild discomfort evolved into spinal stenosis, requiring multiple surgeries. His case illustrates how these injuries can escalate over time and why immediate medical attention is crucial.
Understanding Treatment Through a Client’s Journey
Monica, a nurse at Mobile Infirmary, experienced the treatment process from both sides after her rear-end collision on Spring Hill Avenue. “As a healthcare provider, I thought I could manage the pain myself,” she admits. “That was a mistake.” Her experience taught her the importance of proper documentation and following a comprehensive treatment plan, which ultimately helped her achieve a full recovery.
Insurance Challenges: A Family’s Fight
The Thompson family’s case highlights why experienced legal representation matters. After their teenage daughter was rear-ended near Murphy High School, the insurance company initially offered a settlement that wouldn’t even cover her first round of physical therapy. “We had no idea how expensive ongoing treatment would be,” her mother shares. “Having Lattof & Lattof guide us through the process made all the difference in getting the coverage she needed.”
Call The Lattof & Lattof Law Firm For A Rear-End Accident Attorney In Mobile Alabama
Every rear-end collision case we handle in Mobile is unique, but they all share one common thread: the need for experienced, dedicated legal representation. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, career impacts, or long-term medical needs, we’re here to help write the next chapter of your recovery story. Don’t let an insurance company minimize your injuries or rush you into a settlement that doesn’t cover all your needs.
We’ve had a rear-end accident attorney in Mobile Alabama helping victims since 1952. It would be our pleasure to review your case with you and discuss your rights, remedies and options. Our goal is to equip you with the facts that you need to make an informed decision on whether or not to hire a lawyer. Get in touch with us now for a FREE consultation, either by calling our office at (251) 432-6691 or filling out an online request form [link]. We’d be delighted to represent you and your loved ones and help you to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Remember, your health and your rights are important. Don’t let a rear-end collision derail your career or your life. Take action to protect yourself and your future.