New York City is famous for its congested streets and heavy traffic, where drivers frequently find themselves in stop-and-go conditions. While these traffic patterns may seem mundane, they are a common setting for rear-end collisions, which can lead to serious injuries that are often overlooked or underestimated. Whiplash, in particular, is a frequent consequence of these accidents and requires careful attention to ensure victims receive proper care and compensation.

Understanding Rear-End Collisions in NYC

Rear-end collisions happen when one vehicle strikes the back of another. In stop-and-go traffic, these crashes are often minor in appearance, with little visible damage to the vehicles involved. However, even low-speed impacts can cause significant injury, particularly to the neck and spine. The sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can cause the head and neck to snap forward and backward, which is the mechanism behind whiplash injuries.

Why Whiplash Is Often Underestimated

Whiplash injuries are commonly dismissed due to the lack of an immediately observable sign of injury. Pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion from a whiplash injury can develop hours or even days later. In many cases, the impact from a rear-ended collision involved in stop-and-go traffic is minor, leading the insurance company to undervalue the injuries sustained, as it assumes the collision was not that serious. Victims may receive delayed treatment or be under-compensated if they fail to document their injuries properly and/or seek immediate medical attention for an injury that can sometimes be easily overlooked.

The Importance of Medical Documentation

If you are rear-ended, you must seek medical attention immediately. A medical professional can assess the severity of your whiplash and other injuries and provide you with documentation that is necessary for insurance claims and legal cases. Your medical records, including imaging tests and treatment plan notes, can show that your injuries are related to the accident. Without sufficient documentation, your insurance may try to reduce costs or outright deny requests for treatment altogether. After an accident, it is imperative to secure the documents you need to recover.

Legal Considerations in Rear-End Collisions

In New York, the person who rear-ends another vehicle would usually be presumed at fault for causing that collision. However, liability can be challenged if the rear vehicle was following too closely or in some multiple rear-end collision situations. Knowing your rights and the legal options available to you is the best way to protect your claim. An experienced personal injury attorney who understands the complications associated with rear-end collisions can protect your interests when dealing with potentially hostile insurance companies. They can also ensure that you have documented your injuries to the best possible extent, and they can fight on your behalf for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and even for any costs you might incur in the future for care.

How Ajlouny Injury Law Can Help

At Ajlouny Injury Law, we have extensive experience handling rear-end collision cases in New York City. Our team understands the unique challenges of stop-and-go traffic accidents and the tendency for whiplash claims to be underestimated. We work closely with medical professionals to document injuries thoroughly and pursue fair compensation for our clients. From initial consultation to settlement, we guide victims through every step of the legal process.

Injured? We Give Free Advice

Rear-end crashes in congestion may appear to be minor crashes, but the injuries caused by rear-end crashes, particularly whiplash injuries, can lead to long-lasting effects that may need treatment long after the accident. Failing to take rear-end collisions and related injuries seriously can delay medical treatment and lessen your potential compensation. Obtaining medical treatment and talking with an experienced attorney can help you protect your health and rights accordingly. If you have been injured in a New York City rear-end crash, contact Ajlouny Injury Law today to discuss your case and legal options.