When Is a Rear-end Collision Not Your Fault?
Rear-end accidents are some of the most common accident types. Despite how ubiquitous these accidents seem to be, the laws surrounding rear-end accidents can be confusing. In fact, you may hold many of the same misconceptions about rear-end crashes as do others, including that a rear-end accident is always the fault of the rear driver. However, this isn’t necessarily the case. Here’s what you need to know about fault in a rear-end accident and when a rear-end collision is not your fault. For more clarity, reach out to our car accident attorney today.
WHEN YOU’RE THE REAR DRIVER…
If you’re the rear driver in a rear-end collision, you, the other driver, and the insurance company may all automatically assume the same thing: that you must be at fault for the collision. However, merely being the rear driver doesn’t mean you’re to blame. In fact, causes of rear-end collisions that have nothing to do with the actions of a rear driver include:
- The forward driver brakes suddenly and unexpectedly without good cause;
- The brakes on the rear driver’s vehicle are defective;
- The tail lights/brake lights on the forward vehicle are broken;
- The forward driver causes the accident by turning directly in front of the rear driver in a negligent manner or lane-changing in front of the rear driver.
If you believe that any of the above may have caused your accident, our Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help you gather proof.
WHEN YOU’RE THE DRIVER WHO’S HIT
If you’re the driver who’s hit from behind and none of the following apply, chances are that the rear driver was:
- Following too closely;
- Tailgating;
- Driving aggressively;
- Distracted; or
- Otherwise negligent and unsafe, such as driving while impaired or fatigued.
Again, our personal injury attorney in Los Angeles can open an investigation into your case to help you to prove the fault of the other driver.
DON’T ASSUME YOU’RE AT FAULT
If you’ve been told by the other driver or an insurance company that you’re at fault for a rear-end collision, don’t assume that either is correct, especially if you believe that the other driver was really to blame. What’s more, do not accept a settlement offer. You maintain the right to reject a settlement and negotiate for an offer that more fairly compensates you.
CALL OUR LOS ANGELES PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY TODAY
If you’re involved in a rear-end collision in Los Angeles, you may be blamed for the wreck, even if you did nothing wrong. When you hire our team of experienced car accident lawyers, you can count on us working hard for you. We’re ready to open an investigation into your case today – all you have to do is call us.
We offer free case consultations and work on a contingency fee basis. Reach us online or by phone to get started.
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