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Rear-End Car Accident Lawyer in Burbank, CA

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents in Burbank and throughout California. While they may seem minor at first glance, these crashes can lead to serious injuries and lasting physical and emotional trauma—especially when they’re caused by distracted or negligent drivers.

In busy areas like I-5, Victory Boulevard, Magnolia Boulevard, and the congested routes near Hollywood Burbank Airport, rear-end accidents happen frequently during daily commutes, school drop-offs, and rush hour traffic. Burbank’s mix of local drivers, out-of-town travelers, and dense stop-and-go intersections only adds to the risk.

Insurance companies may try to downplay the seriousness of a rear-end crash or shift blame onto you. But in California, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is usually presumed to be at fault—unless there are clear exceptions.

Working with a local attorney who understands Burbank’s roadways, court system, and insurance tactics gives you a major advantage. You need someone who knows the traffic patterns, accident-prone zones, and how to fight for every dollar of compensation you deserve.

Who Is at Fault in a Rear-End Accident in California?

Rear Driver Is Usually at Fault

Typically, the driver in the rear is found negligent because they:

  • Followed too closely
  • Failed to brake in time
  • Were distracted (texting, eating, using GPS)
  • Were speeding or driving aggressively
  • Didn’t account for road conditions or traffic flow

This makes rear-end collisions some of the most straightforward cases for proving liability—but that doesn’t mean insurance companies won’t try to shift the blame.

Exceptions to the Rule

While the rear driver is often at fault, exceptions can apply, including:

  • Sudden and unnecessary stops by the lead driver
  • Non-functioning brake lights or turn signals
  • Reversing into a vehicle (e.g., in a parking lot)
  • Road rage or brake-checking behavior
  • Accidents involving multiple cars or chain-reactions

In these cases, the lead driver or even a third party could share some or all of the fault. That’s why a detailed investigation is essential.

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a pure comparative fault system. This means:

  • Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation.
  • Your total recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. Insurance companies often use this rule to minimize payouts, so having an experienced attorney challenge those claims is critical.

What to Do After a Rear-End Accident in Burbank

Call 911 and File a Police Report

Even if the crash seems minor, it’s important to call 911 and have a Burbank Police officer document the scene. The police report will:

  • Provide an official record of the accident
  • Include the officer’s assessment of fault
  • List driver and witness information

This report can be a crucial piece of evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing compensation later.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Not all injuries are visible right away. Rear-end collisions often cause:

  • Whiplash
  • Back and neck pain
  • Concussions
  • Soft tissue injuries

Even if you feel “fine,” get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. Delayed treatment can hurt both your recovery and your claim.

Document the Scene

If it’s safe to do so, gather your own evidence at the crash site:

  • Take photos of both vehicles and any visible damage
  • Photograph the scene, street signs, traffic signals, or road hazards
  • Note weather and lighting conditions
  • Write down what happened while it’s still fresh

This documentation helps prove how the accident occurred and the extent of the damage.

Get Driver and Witness Contact Information

Exchange the following with the other driver:

  • Name, phone number, and driver’s license
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • License plate number

Also, speak with any witnesses and ask for their contact details. Witnesses can support your version of events if there’s a dispute.

Avoid Admitting Fault or Giving Recorded Statements

It’s natural to want to apologize after an accident, but be cautious with your words. Do not admit fault, and avoid saying things like “I didn’t see you” or “I slammed my brakes.”

Also, don’t speak to the at-fault driver’s insurance company before consulting with an attorney. They may try to get you to make statements that can be used to reduce your compensation.

Contact a Burbank Car Accident Attorney ASAP

An experienced car accident lawyer can:

  • Handle communication with insurers
  • Gather key evidence
  • Prove liability and damages
  • Fight for full compensation
  • Help you avoid common legal pitfalls

At Tim D. Wright Law, we know the ins and outs of rear-end accidents in Burbank and act fast to protect your rights from day one.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Rear-End Accident in Burbank?

Medical Expenses (Past and Future)

Rear-end collisions often cause injuries that require:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgery
  • Physical therapy or chiropractic care
  • Follow-up doctor appointments
  • Prescription medications

Lost Wages and Loss of Future Income

If your injuries force you to miss work—or impact your ability to return to your job—you may be entitled to:

  • Reimbursement for time off
  • Compensation for lost bonuses, tips, or commissions
  • Damages for reduced earning capacity if your injuries are permanent or disabling

Property Damage

Your vehicle may need repairs—or be declared a total loss. You can seek compensation for:

  • Vehicle repair or replacement
  • Damage to personal items inside the car (phones, laptops, child seats)
  • Rental car costs while your vehicle is being fixed
  • Towing and storage fees

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering compensation is meant to account for the physical pain and mental anguish you’ve endured due to the crash. This includes:

  • Ongoing discomfort or limitations
  • Loss of mobility or physical independence
  • Anxiety, depression, or trouble sleeping

Emotional Trauma or Reduced Quality of Life

Rear-end collisions—especially those involving serious injury—can affect your emotional well-being and daily life. If you’ve experienced:

  • PTSD from the accident
  • Fear of driving or riding in a car
  • Loss of enjoyment in hobbies or family activities
  • Ongoing emotional distress

…these are real and recoverable damages. We’ll help make sure they’re included in your claim.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Even small costs can add up quickly. You may be entitled to reimbursement for:

  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Travel to and from medical appointments
  • Mobility aids (braces, crutches, etc.)
  • Household help if you can’t perform daily tasks

How Tim D. Wright Law Can Help After a Rear-End Accident in Burbank

Thorough Investigation of the Crash

Rear-end collisions might seem simple, but establishing liability and uncovering all contributing factors often requires an in-depth investigation. We look beyond the obvious to uncover:

  • What really caused the crash
  • Whether speed, distraction, or negligence played a role
  • Whether defective parts, poor visibility, or multiple vehicles were involved

This comprehensive approach helps ensure nothing is overlooked when building your claim.

Collection of Key Evidence

We know how to gather and preserve the evidence that matters, including:

  • Police reports
  • Dashcam or surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras
  • Photos of vehicle damage and accident location
  • Medical records and expert evaluations
  • Accident reconstruction reports, when necessary

By presenting clear and compelling documentation, we strengthen your position during negotiation or trial.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize rear-end accident claims by:

  • Downplaying your injuries
  • Blaming you for sudden stops
  • Offering lowball settlements

We handle all communication and negotiation with insurers so you don’t have to. Our team fights for every dollar you're owed—for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Filing a Lawsuit if a Settlement Isn’t Reached

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. With experience litigating personal injury cases in Los Angeles County courts, we won’t hesitate to escalate when necessary to get you the outcome you deserve.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery — We’re Here to Help

If you were injured in a rear-end car accident in Burbank, you have legal rights—and you deserve to be fully compensated for your injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. Even if the crash seemed minor, don’t underestimate the lasting impact it can have on your health, finances, and daily life.

Taking quick legal action is essential to preserving evidence, securing medical documentation, and ensuring you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies. Delays can weaken your case or even prevent you from recovering the full compensation you’re entitled to.

At Tim D. Wright Law, we fight for Burbank residents who’ve been hurt by negligent drivers. We offer free consultations, no upfront fees, and compassionate, aggressive legal representation you can count on.

Contact Tim D. Wright Law Today for a Free Consultation:

Personal Injury Office:
📍 1112 W. Burbank Blvd., Suite 302
Burbank, CA 91506

📞 Phone: (323) 379-9995
✉️ Email: firm@timwrightlaw.com
🌐 Website: https://www.timwrightlaw.com

📲 Stay Connected:

I am very satisfied and thankful with Attorney Tim Wright and his whole team for taking care and handling my fathers personal injuries case. Thank you all very much your staff is amazing, very helpful.
Abraham Ortega
The Law Offices of Tim D. Wright were awesome. They were professional, they kept an open communication with me through out the process.  Big shout out to Sergio and Mercedes for being very helpful with my settlement.
Frank Medina

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