Chicago Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer

Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable in Rear‑End Collisions

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of injuries and death in the United States. In a busy city like Chicago, rear-end accidents are extremely common due to heavy traffic, densely packed streets, and driver negligence. If you get hurt in this type of collision, you could seek compensation from the at-fault party with the help of a Chicago rear-end car accident lawyer. At Chicago Injury Center, we specialize in supporting victims with car accident injuries. We can help you navigate the claims process to maximize your chances of recovering damages.

Rear‑End Accident Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Law Firm in Chicago

• $1.6 million – While driving home on the Kennedy Expressway during evening rush hour, 42-year-old Angela was rear-ended by a speeding SUV in stop-and-go traffic. She suffered a severe herniated lumbar disc, ultimately requiring fusion surgery. The high cost of her surgery, months of missed work, and permanent physical limitations significantly increased the case’s value.
• $720,000 – David, a delivery driver from Cicero, was rear-ended by a semi-truck pulling a double trailer near the I-55/I-90 interchange. He went to work after, but escalating neck pain led to a diagnosis of a cervical disc herniation requiring surgery. The involvement of a commercial trucking company, delayed symptom onset, and significant medical expenses were key factors in the settlement.
• $385,000 – In Logan Square, Maria was stopped at a red light when an impaired driver slammed into the back of her car at high speed. She sustained a herniated lumbar disc that required extensive physical therapy. The at-fault driver’s intoxication and clear liability helped drive the settlement higher.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Center

Our top-rated law firm has the experience necessary to win your personal injury lawsuit. Attorneys at Chicago Injury Center are recognized among the top 5% of legal professionals by Super Lawyers. We also maintain a five-star rating from Avvo.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Rear‑End Car Accidents in Chicago?

The cause of the accident can play a crucial role in determining fault. Personal injury law states that the negligent driver and their insurance company would be responsible for covering the victim’s damages if they suffered injuries. Here are some of the most common causes of rear-end accidents in Chicago:

• Distracted driving (phones, navigation systems)
• Tailgating
• Speeding
• Impaired driving (drunk driving)
• Poor weather conditions (rain, ice, snow, fog)
• Faulty brake lights or defective vehicle behavior (abrupt braking)

What Serious Injuries Are Associated with Rear‑End Collisions?

The severity of your injuries will affect how much compensation you are eligible for. Here are some common injuries in rear-end collisions:

• Whiplash and neck strain
• Herniated discs and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Fractures and joint injuries
• Soft tissue injuries (sprains, torn ligaments)
• Internal organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Lacerations
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fatalities (in severe cases)

What Damages Can Rear‑End Car Accident Victims Recover in Chicago?

After a car crash, you can pursue legal damages to cover some of your losses.

• Economic Damages
  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Future medical expenses
  • Property damage
• Non-Economic Damages
  • Emotional distress
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of normal life
• Punitive Damages
  • Awarded in rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

What Is the Average Payout for a Rear‑End Car Crash in Chicago?

Multiple factors will affect your payout after a rear-end collision, including injury severity, duration of recovery, insurance policy limits, and liability. The average settlement for this type of car accident claim is $492,638. All payouts fall within the range of $1,000 to $23.78 million.

Example Rear‑End Car Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

In 2018, Jeremy was driving a tractor-trailer when he was struck by a trailing pickup truck at high speed. He suffered neck injuries and sued the employer of the pickup driver. Jeremy received treatment and therapy, but his symptoms grew worse, and he also struggled with declining neurological health. The jury awarded him $12.21 million in the settlement.

In 2008, Randolph was driving his truck with multiple passengers when a commercial semi-truck rear-ended him. He and another passenger suffered serious injuries, while a second passenger was killed. Randolph claimed he was stopped in traffic and the other driver failed to control their speed. All parties settled before the trial for $6.5 million.

Why You Need an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

An experienced car accident attorney can help with your claim in multiple ways:

• Proving negligence for distracted driving or faulty parts
• Gathering evidence to counter defenses by insurance companies
• Safeguarding your rights by preserving evidence from the accident scene

How Common Are Rear‑End Collisions in Chicago?

Rear-end collisions are extremely common in Chicago. In 2023 alone, there were 23,785 front-to-rear crashes reported in the Windy City.

Where Do Rear‑End Accidents Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Some locations in the city are more dangerous than others in terms of rear-end collision risks:

• High-traffic expressways: Lake Shore Drive, I-90/I-94, I-290
• Busy intersections on arterial roads: Milwaukee Ave, major cross-streets
• Near construction zones or during peak rush hours
• At intersections with poorly functioning traffic signals or red-light cameras

What Laws Govern Rear‑End Accident Claims in Chicago?

• Municipal code 9-40-150: Drivers must maintain a reasonable distance between themselves and the vehicles in front of them
• State law 735 ILCS 5/2‑1116: The percentage of the victim’s fault will reduce their maximum compensation under modified comparative negligence

How Long Do I Have to File a Rear‑End Accident Lawsuit in Chicago?

State law 735 ILCS 5/13-202 allows victims two years from the date of the accident to pursue legal claims. If someone dies in the crash, surviving family members have two years from the date of the death to seek damages (740 ILCS 180/).

Who Is Legally Liable for Rear‑End Accidents in Chicago?

Typically, the rear driver is presumed at fault unless proven otherwise. However, liability could also belong to:

• The city if road defects contributed
• Commercial fleet owners under vicarious liability
• Manufacturers of defective parts

Common Defenses in Rear‑End Collision Cases

Defendants and insurance companies could make several arguments to undermine your claim:

• You switched lanes without signalling
• You stopped too abruptly
• The rear vehicle had a mechanical failure
• We can counter these arguments with expert analysis, traffic footage, and witness statements.

How to Strengthen Your Rear‑End Car Accident Claim in Chicago

You must follow these steps immediately after your accident to build a strong claim:

• Seek immediate medical treatment
• Document your injuries (broken bones or similar)
• Call the police and request a crash report
• Take photos of the accident scene
• Gather witness contacts and any footage
• Avoid admitting fault or accepting low settlement offers without legal review
• Consult an experienced auto accident attorney at Chicago Injury Center

How a Chicago Rear‑End Car Accident Attorney Can Help

Our legal services include:

• Investigating crash details
• Obtaining scene footage
• Coordinating with medical professionals to access medical records
• Handling negotiations with insurers
• Representing you in court if necessary

Book a Free Consultation

At Chicago Injury Center, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means no fees unless we win. If you have been rear-ended by another driver and injured, our team will support your compensation claim and build a strong case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a top-rated Chicago car accident lawyer. We can represent clients throughout Cook County and Illinois.