Hit from Behind? Prestige Law Firm P.C. Fights for You

Rear-end collisions happen in an instant—but the injuries, paperwork, and financial strain can drag on for months. One moment you’re stopped in traffic, the next you’re left dealing with neck pain, a wrecked car, time off work, and insurance companies pressuring you to settle quickly.

In traffic-heavy Los Angeles, these accidents are far too common—and many victims don’t know what they’re truly entitled to.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we’ve spent over two decades helping injured drivers across Van Nuys, Palmdale, and the greater LA area recover the compensation they need. Whether you’re suffering from whiplash, a concussion, or back injuries—or just need help with car repairs and medical appointments—we handle the full legal and claims process so you can focus on getting better.

Our firm offers:

• Free case evaluations
• No fees unless we win
• Direct access to an experienced attorney—not assistants
• Help arranging medical treatment and vehicle repairs

Don’t let the insurance company decide what your case is worth. Let us fight for what’s fair.

The Most Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in L.A

Rear-end crashes are among the most frequent car accidents in Los Angeles, but they’re rarely as “minor” as insurers claim. These accidents often stem from careless or reckless driving—and leave victims with painful injuries and months of disruption.

Here are the most common causes we see in rear-end accident claims:

1. Distracted Driving

Texting, using GPS, eating, or adjusting music takes a driver’s eyes off the road—and just a second of distraction can lead to impact. This is the leading cause of rear-end crashes in LA traffic.

2. Following Too Closely

Tailgating gives drivers no time to react. California Vehicle Code §21703 requires drivers to maintain a safe distance, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Failure to do so often results in liability.

3. Speeding

Driving too fast reduces stopping distance and increases crash severity. In rain or congestion, even the posted speed limit may be unsafe, especially on LA’s freeways.

4. Aggressive Driving

Sudden lane changes, hard braking, or weaving through traffic can trigger chain-reaction crashes. This reckless behaviour often contributes to liability in rear-end collisions.

5. Unsafe Road Conditions

Rain, fog, and poor visibility make stopping more difficult. Drivers who fail to adjust speed or braking distance for weather conditions may be held responsible for crashes.

6. Faulty Vehicle Maintenance

Worn brakes, bald tires, or faulty lights reduce a vehicle’s ability to stop safely. Under California law, drivers are responsible for maintaining a safe vehicle—failure to do so can shift blame in a collision.

7. Fatigue or Drowsy Driving

Exhausted drivers have slower reflexes and reduced awareness. Fatigue-related rear-end crashes are common during commutes, early mornings, or late-night shifts.

8. Sudden or Unsafe Stops

Not all rear-end collisions are automatically the rear driver’s fault. If the lead vehicle made a sudden or unsafe stop, or had non-functioning brake lights, they may share partial responsibility under California’s comparative negligence rules.

9. Inexperienced Drivers

New drivers may misjudge stopping distances or react slowly to traffic. This increases their risk of rear-ending other vehicles, especially in unpredictable city traffic.

10. Failure to Yield

Rear-end crashes also happen when drivers merge improperly, brake abruptly at intersections, or fail to yield. These behaviours may shift liability depending on traffic laws and available evidence.

Paul Aghabala, Esq.

Founding Attorney

818-788-0808 paul@prestigelaw.com

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes may seem minor—especially at low speeds—but even a small impact can leave lasting injuries. These injuries often affect the neck, spine, and back, and many do not fully appear until hours or days later.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we’ve represented hundreds of rear-end accident victims in Los Angeles who initially “felt fine” but later faced serious medical challenges. Here’s what you should know:

Whiplash

One of the most common injuries in rear-end crashes, whiplash happens when your neck is abruptly jerked forward and back. It can cause:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches
• Reduced range of motion
• Long-term discomfort

Whiplash is often dismissed by insurance companies, but it can seriously affect your quality of life and work performance.

Soft Tissue Damage

Rear-end crashes can stretch or tear muscles, ligaments, and tendons—especially in the shoulders, back, or arms. Symptoms may include swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving. Treatment often requires physical therapy and time off work.

Concussions and Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries

The sudden jolt from a rear-end crash can cause your head to strike the seat or window, even with airbags. Concussions and TBIs may result in:

• Memory issues
• Dizziness
• Mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms may last weeks or longer, and early diagnosis is critical.

Back Injuries and Herniated Discs

Rear-end collisions can compress the spine or cause twisting injuries, leading to:

• Lower back pain
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Nerve damage or sciatica

Some injuries may require surgery or limit your ability to work and move comfortably.

Broken Bones

Seatbelt force, steering wheel impact, or bracing for collision can cause fractures in:

• Arms and wrists
• Ribs
• Clavicle or collarbone

These injuries often take weeks to heal and may involve surgery or casting.

Spinal Cord Damage

In severe crashes, the spinal cord itself may be damaged, leading to:

• Partial or full paralysis
• Loss of motor function
• Lifelong care needs

These cases require maximum compensation due to their life-altering nature.

Internal Injuries

Not all damage is visible. Rear-end crashes can cause internal bleeding or organ injury, especially in high-speed impacts. These injuries may not show symptoms right away, so immediate medical care is essential.

What to Do Immediately After a Rear-End Collision

The moments after a rear-end crash are stressful—but what you do next can significantly affect both your physical recovery and legal case.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we help injured clients across Los Angeles every day who followed the right steps early and strengthened their claims.

Here’s what to do after a rear-end collision:

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your health is the priority. Check yourself and passengers for any signs of injury. Even if the crash seems minor, call 911. Police can create an official report—a vital document when filing your insurance claim or lawsuit.

2. Move to Safety

If the vehicles are operable, move them to a safe area away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert others. If someone is seriously hurt, avoid moving them unless there’s an immediate risk (like fire or oncoming traffic).

3. Exchange Information

Collect the other driver’s:

• Full name and phone number
• License plate number
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company and policy number

Avoid small talk or apologizing. Do not admit fault—even casually—as it may be used against you later.

4. Take Photos and Video

Use your phone to document:

• Vehicle damage (both cars, from all angles)
• Roadway, traffic signs, and skid marks
• Weather and lighting conditions
• Visible injuries
• License plates

If any items inside your car were damaged, take photos of those too.

5. Get Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or spinal strain—can take hours or days to appear. Early treatment protects your health and strengthens your claim.

6. File a DMV Report (If Required)

Under California Vehicle Code § 16000, any accident involving injury or over $1,000 in damage must be reported to the DMV within 10 days. This applies even if a police report was already filed. Failing to report could result in license suspension.

7. Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone

Insurance representatives may call within hours of the crash. Their goal is to settle fast—and cheaply. Politely decline recorded statements and do not accept any offers before speaking with a L.A personal injury lawyer.

8. Call a Rear-End Collision Lawyer

Contact Prestige Law Firm P.C. for a free consultation. We’ll:

• Coordinate your medical care
• Handle all insurance communications
• Preserve evidence
• Protect your rights from day one

Let us deal with the paperwork, calls, and claims—so you can focus on recovery.

Rear-End Collision Claims in Los Angeles

Rear-end crashes may seem simple—but under California law, fault and liability aren’t always automatic. If you’ve been hit from behind, understanding how rear-end collision claims work in Los Angeles can help you protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Fault Is Presumed, but Not Guaranteed

In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is presumed to be at fault. California Vehicle Code §21703 requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. If a driver fails to stop in time, they’re likely violating this statute—and liable for the crash.

But that presumption is rebuttable. If the front driver:

• Slammed on the brakes without cause
• Reversed unexpectedly
• Had malfunctioning brake lights

…fault could be shared or even shifted.

This is why even rear-end cases require legal strategy and investigation.

Distracted or Reckless Driving Strengthens Your Case

Texting while driving is a major cause of rear-end crashes in LA. California Vehicle Code §23123 prohibits holding or using a handheld device while driving. If the at-fault driver was texting, streaming, or using GPS when they hit you, that’s strong evidence of negligence.

Tailgating, speeding (VC §22350), or aggressive lane changes also show reckless behaviour that makes them liable for your injuries.

Comparative Negligence: You Can Still Recover

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule under Civil Code §1714. If you were partially at fault—for example, if your brake lights weren’t working or you made a sudden, unsafe stop—you can still recover compensation.

However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. So if your damages total $100,000 but you’re found 25% responsible, you’ll recover $75,000.

Our team works to minimize any blame assigned to you—so you get the maximum recovery possible.

Vehicle Condition and Visibility Matter

If the rear driver’s vehicle had:

• Worn-out brakes (VC §24002)
• Obstructed view from window tint or dash clutter (VC §26708)
• Broken headlights or bald tires

…they may be found negligent for operating an unsafe vehicle.

Likewise, we investigate whether your vehicle had any mechanical issues that could affect liability. These technical details matter in tight cases.

Reporting Requirements After a Rear-End Crash

As stated earlier, you are required to report a crash to the DMV within 10 days if there’s any injury or property damage over $1,000. Failing to do so can cause problems with your insurance claim—or even result in license suspension.

Also, driving without insurance is illegal under VC §16020. If the at-fault driver was uninsured, you may need to file a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage.

Damages You Can Claim After a Rear-End Collision

​​If you were injured in a rear-end crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the legal right to pursue compensation. In California, this compensation—called damages—is meant to restore what you’ve lost both financially and emotionally.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we fight to recover every category of damages available under state law, including:

Economic Damages (Tangible Financial Losses)

These are the out-of-pocket expenses and financial burdens you’ve faced because of the accident. We calculate and document these with precision to ensure nothing gets left on the table.

• Medical Expenses
  Includes ER visits, hospital stays, imaging (X-rays, MRIs), surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and long-term care.
• Future Medical Needs
  If your injury requires ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or future surgeries, we include those projected costs in your claim.
• Lost Wages
  If you’ve missed work because of your injuries, you can recover compensation for the income you’ve lost—whether hourly wages or salary.
• Loss of Earning Capacity
  If your injuries limit your ability to work or reduce your long-term income potential, we work with vocational and economic experts to calculate this loss.
• Property Damage
  Compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle, as well as any personal belongings damaged in the crash (phones, tools, laptops, etc.).

Non-Economic Damages (Intangible Losses)

Not all losses come with receipts—but that doesn’t mean they don’t matter. Non-economic damages compensate you for the personal and emotional toll of the accident.

• Pain and Suffering
  For the physical pain you’ve endured during recovery and any ongoing discomfort or chronic conditions.
• Emotional Distress
  Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disturbances are common after serious collisions. These symptoms are real—and compensable.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life
  If you can no longer participate in activities you once loved—playing sports, traveling, or spending time with family—you deserve to be compensated.
• Loss of Consortium
  In certain cases, a spouse may be able to recover damages for the loss of companionship, intimacy, or support resulting from your injuries.

Punitive Damages (in Exceptional Cases)

If the other driver’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional—such as DUI, hit-and-run, or road rage—California law may allow punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct. While rare, we pursue them when justified.

➤ How We Maximize Your Compensation: At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we don’t rely on generic settlement calculators. We work with:

• Medical experts to verify treatment needs
• Economic analysts to document wage loss
• Life care planners to estimate future costs

And we build a strong case narrative to show how your life has been affected—so insurers, juries, and judges understand the true value of your claim.

Every dollar counts. Let us fight for the full compensation you’re legally entitled to.

How Our Rear-End Accident Lawyers Can Help You

When you’ve been rear-ended, you’re already dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty. The last thing you need is a complicated legal battle or pressure from insurance adjusters pushing you to settle for less. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we take that burden off your shoulders—from the moment you call us.

Here’s how our team helps you at every stage:

Immediate Legal Protection

We step in right away to stop the insurance runaround. Our attorneys take over all communication with adjusters and defense lawyers. This protects your rights and ensures you don’t accidentally say something that could hurt your claim.

Fast Medical Coordination

You need care—without delay and without worrying about cost. We connect you with trusted doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, and imaging clinics in Los Angeles. If you’re uninsured or can’t afford treatment, we help you get care on a medical lien, meaning no upfront payment is required.

Full Documentation of Your Injuries and Damages

We gather and organize every piece of evidence:

• Medical records and treatment plans
• Lost income statements from your employer
• Photos, videos, and police reports from the scene
• Witness accounts and expert evaluations

This builds a powerful foundation for your claim and increases your chances of a higher settlement.

Aggressive Settlement Negotiation

Our experience with both insurance defense and plaintiff representation gives us a unique edge. We know how insurers think—and we don’t let them downplay your pain.

We prepare comprehensive demand letters that detail your injuries, losses, and legal rights in a way that insurance companies can’t ignore.

Prepared to Litigate

If the insurer refuses to settle fairly, we escalate. Our attorneys are fully prepared to file a lawsuit, conduct depositions, hire expert witnesses, and go to trial. Many firms talk about litigation—we actually do it. That trial-readiness often results in better pretrial settlements.

Client Communication and Peace of Mind

You’ll never be left wondering what’s going on. You’ll have direct contact with your attorney throughout your case—not just assistants. We explain every step in plain language, answer your questions promptly, and keep you informed so you can make confident decisions.

We Don’t Just Handle Rear-End Cases. We Handle Everything for You.

From rental cars to property damage help, from managing your doctor’s paperwork to negotiating liens—we manage the full scope of your case so you can focus on healing.

Call (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939 today to speak directly with an attorney who can start helping immediately. Consultations are always free, and you owe nothing unless we win.

Why Choose Prestige Law Firm P.C. for Your Rear-End Collision Case?

Rear-end collisions might seem simple, but the physical, financial, and emotional aftermath is anything but. You deserve a law firm that sees the full picture—and fights to make it right.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., our entire practice is built around helping injured people take back control. Here’s what sets us apart when you’ve been hit from behind:

Decades of Trial-Ready Experience

With over two decades of personal injury experience, our lead attorney, Paul Aghabala, knows how to investigate, negotiate, and litigate rear-end crash cases. We prepare every case like it’s going to trial—because that’s what gets results, even in settlements.

A Track Record That Speaks for Itself

We’ve recovered seven- and eight-figure verdicts and settlements for clients across Los Angeles, including many injured in rear-end crashes. Whether you’re dealing with soft tissue trauma or a serious spinal injury, we have the experience and resources to pursue maximum compensation.

Direct Access to Your Attorney

When you work with us, you won’t be passed from one assistant to another. You’ll speak directly with your attorney, who knows your name, understands your injuries, and is personally invested in your outcome.

We Know Insurance Tactics—Because We’ve Been on the Inside

Attorney Aghabala spent years defending insurance companies before founding Prestige Law Firm. Our team includes former adjusters who understand how insurers calculate payouts—and how they try to avoid them. That knowledge gives us an edge when it’s time to negotiate.

No Upfront Fees, Ever

You shouldn’t have to choose between paying rent and hiring a lawyer. That’s why we work on a contingency basis. You pay nothing out of pocket—ever. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything.

End-to-End Support

From setting up medical treatment and rental cars to filing claims and negotiating bills, we handle everything. Our clients trust us not just for legal skill, but because we make the entire process easier and more manageable.

Recognized by Peers, Respected by Clients

Our firm has been recognized by Super Lawyers, and Attorney Aghabala has been repeatedly ranked as a Rising Star. More importantly, we’ve earned the trust of thousands of clients who continue to refer us to their friends and family.

We Fight for People—Not Payouts

We don’t treat your injury like a case number. We treat it like the turning point it is. You’ll get real legal representation, compassionate communication, and a relentless commitment to getting results.

Call now to speak directly with a rear-end accident attorney at Prestige Law Firm P.C. Serving Van Nuys, Palmdale, and all of Los Angeles County.

Let Prestige Law Firm P.C. Help You Get Back on Track

A rear-end collision can derail your life—but you don’t have to face the recovery alone. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we understand how a single crash can cause long-term pain, missed work, and mounting bills. That’s why we offer experienced legal help with zero upfront costs and personal attention from day one.

Whether you were rear-ended on the 101, at a Van Nuys intersection, or during your morning commute through Los Angeles, we’re ready to fight for the compensation you’re owed.

Here’s what you get with us:

✅ Free case evaluation

✅ No fees unless we win

✅ Direct access to your attorney

✅ Full coordination of medical care and vehicle repairs

✅ A law firm that doesn’t just settle—we win

We’ve helped countless crash victims recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Let us do the same for you.

📞 Call now at (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939

📍 Serving Van Nuys, Palmdale, and all of Los Angeles County

Start your free case review today—your road to recovery starts with a call.

Paul Aghabala

Founding Member

Written by Paul Aghabala, Reviewed by Todd Greenberg, J.D.