With its dense traffic, tight intersections, and frequent stop-and-go driving along streets like Olive Avenue and San Fernando Boulevard, Burbank sees its fair share of rear-end collisions. These accidents may seem minor at first glance, but even low-speed impacts can cause serious, lingering injuries—especially to the neck, back, and spine. Whether you're rear-ended at a red light or in a sudden traffic slowdown on the 5 Freeway, the effects can be physically and financially overwhelming.
Rear-end crashes are among the most common types of car accidents in California, but that doesn’t mean they’re simple to resolve. Victims often face resistance from insurance companies who downplay their injuries or try to assign blame unfairly. That’s why having an experienced personal injury attorney makes all the difference.
At Tim Wright Law, we’ve helped countless Burbank residents recover compensation after being rear-ended by careless or distracted drivers. We understand the unique dynamics of these cases and how to build strong claims that insurance companies take seriously. From whiplash and soft tissue injuries to more severe trauma, our firm is committed to helping clients heal, get justice, and move forward.
Under California law, there is a general presumption that the rear driver is at fault in a rear-end collision. This is based on the idea that drivers are responsible for maintaining a safe following distance and reacting appropriately to traffic conditions. If a driver fails to stop in time and hits the car in front, they’re typically considered negligent under California Vehicle Code § 21703.
However, like all legal presumptions, this is rebuttable—meaning the rear driver can argue that the lead driver contributed to the crash.
There are rare but notable exceptions where the lead driver may share liability or even be found primarily at fault. These include situations where:
In these cases, proving the front driver’s partial responsibility may reduce your liability or shift it entirely.
Evidence is key to supporting your claim or defending against false accusations. At Tim Wright Law, we help clients gather and analyze:
This documentation can significantly strengthen your case and help establish a clear timeline of what happened.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means even if you were partially at fault for the crash, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, your final recovery would be $80,000.
This is why it’s so important to have skilled legal representation. Insurance companies often try to assign comparative fault unfairly to minimize payouts. Tim Wright Law fights back with thorough evidence and strong advocacy to ensure your side of the story is fully heard and fairly evaluated.
Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue strain may not be obvious right away but can worsen over time. Don’t delay medical care. Getting examined at the scene or by a doctor shortly after the accident helps ensure:
Always call Burbank Police or the California Highway Patrol to report the accident. A formal accident report is a key piece of evidence and often includes observations about fault or citations issued at the scene. While waiting, document everything:
If anyone saw the crash, ask for their name and contact details. Witnesses can help validate your version of events, especially in contested cases. Use your phone to take photos or videos of:
This evidence can become invaluable during insurance negotiations or in court.
It’s natural to want to be polite or express concern—but be careful what you say at the scene. Even simple phrases like “I’m sorry” can be twisted into an admission of fault. Also:
Insurance companies often look for ways to downplay injuries or shift blame. Don’t give them ammunition.
Rear-end accident claims can get complicated quickly—especially if you’re dealing with delayed-onset injuries, disputed liability, or pushback from insurers. The sooner you speak with a knowledgeable Burbank personal injury lawyer, the better. At Tim Wright Law, we handle every detail so you can focus on healing. We’ll investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
From ER visits to physical therapy, the cost of treating injuries after a rear-end crash can add up quickly. You may be entitled to compensation for:
We also account for future medical costs, especially in cases involving lasting pain, limited mobility, or spinal damage.
If your injuries kept you from returning to work, you can claim compensation for:
We work with financial experts when needed to calculate the true economic impact of your accident.
Pain and suffering damages account for the physical discomfort and life disruption caused by your injuries. This can include:
These damages are often subjective, but with the right legal documentation, they can make up a significant portion of your total recovery.
Rear-end accidents can also cause serious psychological effects, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD—especially if the collision was severe. You may be entitled to compensation for:
We take your mental and emotional well-being seriously and fight to make sure it’s included in your claim.
If your car was damaged or totaled in the accident, you can also seek reimbursement for:
We ensure that all property damage is properly documented and negotiated with the insurer.
If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in Burbank or the surrounding Los Angeles area, don’t wait to get legal help. Insurance companies move fast—and they’re not on your side. At Tim Wright Law, we offer the support, experience, and personal attention you need to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
We understand the physical pain, emotional stress, and financial strain that follow even a low-speed rear-end crash. That’s why we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
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