Rear-end crashes happen fast. One minute you’re driving, and the next- someone has slammed into you. At Denver Personal Injury Lawyers®, we know how frustrating and painful these accidents can be.
Our team has helped hundreds of injured drivers and passengers across Colorado. If you’ve been rear-ended in Denver, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from who’s at fault to what compensation you might recover.
What Is a Rear-End Accident?
Rear-end accidents are the most common types of collisions in Denver.
They often occur at stoplights, in traffic, or on highways. Even low-speed crashes can cause serious injuries.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Most rear-end crashes happen because of driver error. Here are some of the most common reasons we see in our cases:
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Distracted driving (like texting)
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Failing to brake in time
- Weather-related hazards (snow, ice, or rain)
- Driving under the influence
Sometimes, vehicle defects or poor road conditions also play a role. As Denver car accident attorneys, we dig deep to understand exactly what happened.
Who’s at Fault in a Rear-End Crash?
In most cases, the driver who hits you from behind is at fault. Colorado law requires drivers to leave enough space to stop safely.
However, there are exceptions. Fault can be shared if:
- Your brake lights weren’t working
- You stopped suddenly without cause
- You were reversing or changing lanes unsafely
That’s why it’s important to have your crash investigated. We gather photos, witness statements, dashcam footage, and police reports to build a strong case.
Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents can cause serious injuries—even at speeds under 20 mph. These are the ones we see most often:
- Whiplash
- Neck and back strains
- Concussions
- Herniated discs
- Shoulder injuries
- Seatbelt and airbag injuries
Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Always get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel okay after the crash.
What To Do After a Rear-End Accident in Denver
What you do after a crash can affect your health and your claim. Here’s what we recommend:
- Call 911 – Always report the crash.
- Seek medical attention – Don’t wait to see a doctor.
- Take photos – Get pictures of both cars, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange info – Get the other driver’s license, plate number, and insurance.
- Talk to witnesses – Ask for names and contact details.
- Don’t admit fault – Stay calm and stick to the facts.
- Call a Denver car accident attorney – The sooner, the better.
What If the Other Driver Says You’re at Fault?
It’s not uncommon for at-fault drivers to shift blame. They might say you stopped suddenly or that they weren’t speeding.
Colorado follows a modified comparative fault rule. That means if you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages—but your compensation may be reduced.
Our job is to push back with facts and evidence. We’ve handled many rear-end claims where fault was unfairly disputed—and won.
What Damages Can You Recover?
You may be entitled to compensation for many types of losses. These include:
Economic Damages:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Car repair or replacement
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disfigurement
In some cases, we also seek punitive damages—especially if the other driver was reckless or impaired.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Colorado?
In Colorado, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. That’s the statute of limitations.
But don’t wait. Evidence fades. Witnesses disappear. And the insurance company won’t be on your side.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
Unfortunately, not every driver follows the law. If the other driver has no insurance—or not enough—your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may help.
Colorado doesn’t require UM/UIM, but most drivers carry it. We’ll review your policy to find out what coverage is available.
Want to understand Colorado insurance requirements? Here’s a helpful breakdown from the Colorado DMV.
Will Your Case Go to Court?
Most rear-end accident claims settle out of court. But if the insurance company won’t make a fair offer, we’re ready to file a lawsuit.
Our Denver car accident attorneys are experienced negotiators—and aggressive litigators when necessary.
We’ll explain the pros and cons of going to court and help you make the right call.
Example: Rear-End Crash on I-25
Imagine you’re driving home during rush hour on I-25 when another car rear-ends you. The other driver claims you suddenly slammed on your brakes without warning. You’re shaken up and unsure what to do next.
In a case like this, we would pull traffic cam footage, compare vehicle damage, and bring in an accident reconstruction expert. That evidence could clearly show that you were driving safely—and that the other driver was following too closely.
With this kind of support, a claim like yours could result in a strong settlement. In similar cases, we’ve secured six-figure outcomes that helped cover medical bills and time off work.
Every rear-end case is different. But having solid evidence and legal guidance can make all the difference.
Dealing With Insurance After a Rear-End Crash
Insurance companies don’t work for you. They often try to downplay your injuries or say you were partially at fault.
Here’s how we help:
- Handle all communication
- Collect medical records and expert opinions
- Fight for a fair settlement
- Guide you through every step
If they won’t settle, we’ll file a lawsuit and go to court.
How Rear-End Accidents Affect Your Daily Life
Even minor injuries can disrupt your routine. We’ve helped clients who:
- Couldn’t lift their kids
- Missed weeks of work
- Struggled with anxiety after the crash
- Had to switch careers due to lasting pain
We take these impacts seriously. Insurance companies often don’t.
Tips to Avoid Rear-End Accidents
While you can’t control other drivers, you can lower your risk:
- Leave plenty of space
- Avoid distractions
- Brake early and gently
- Keep your brake lights working
- Drive with extra care in bad weather
Sometimes you do everything right—and still get hit. That’s where we come in.
What If You Were a Passenger in a Rear-End Crash?
Passengers have rights, too. If you were injured as a passenger in a rear-end accident, you can usually file a claim. You may be able to recover from the at-fault driver’s insurance—or your own if they’re uninsured.
As a passenger, you’re rarely ever at fault. That often makes your case more straightforward. Still, it’s smart to have a Denver car accident attorney guide you. We’ll make sure every insurance policy involved is reviewed and that you get the compensation you deserve.
Rear-End Accidents Involving Multiple Vehicles
Chain-reaction crashes are common in heavy Denver traffic. One rear-end can cause a domino effect, damaging multiple vehicles and injuring several people.
Figuring out fault in these accidents is complex. It’s possible that more than one driver shares blame. Sometimes, the driver who started the crash doesn’t even hit your car directly. Instead, the impact pushes other vehicles into you.
In these cases, we often bring in accident reconstruction experts. We also work with witnesses, review traffic cams, and analyze each car’s damage. Multi-vehicle accidents take extra care—and that’s exactly what we provide.
What Happens If You’re Rear-Ended by a Commercial Vehicle?
Being hit by a commercial vehicle—like a delivery van, rideshare, or service truck—raises the stakes. These vehicles are often covered by larger insurance policies. But they’re also backed by legal teams who want to protect their companies. That’s why you need a skilled Denver car accident attorney on your side.
If you’re rear-ended by a commercial driver, the company may be liable. That means your case could involve:
- Commercial insurance policies
- Employer negligence
- Poor vehicle maintenance records
We’ve handled many of these claims. Our team knows how to hold companies accountable and make sure injured drivers get fair treatment.
Why Expert Guidance From a Denver Car Accident Attorney Matters
Rear-end crashes might seem simple. But legal issues can get complicated fast. Insurance adjusters may pressure you to settle. Evidence might not be clear-cut. And your injuries could worsen over time.
That’s why it helps to have an experienced Denver car accident attorney on your side. At Denver Personal Injury Lawyers®, we:
- Investigate crashes thoroughly
- Work with doctors and experts
- Handle all paperwork and deadlines
- Fight for the full compensation you deserve
We know how Colorado law works. And we know how to win tough cases.
For more info on rear-end crash statistics and traffic safety, check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s resources.
Contact Denver Personal Injury Lawyers® for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been rear-ended in Denver, don’t wait to get help. Our firm has a long history of success in car accident cases. We’ve recovered millions for clients across Colorado. And we’re ready to fight for you.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee—so you don’t pay unless we win. We’re known for clear communication, compassion, and results.
Reach out to our team today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about how we can help you recover, move forward, and get the justice you deserve.
