Indiana residents can be left seriously injured after a rear-end car accident. Although these collisions appear cut and dry regarding who’s responsible, this is not always true. This is how to establish liability in a rear-end accident.
Causes of rear-end accidents
To establish liability for rear-end car accidents, the cause of such an incident must be made clear. As a general rule, the majority of the time, the rear driver is at fault. However, this is not always the case; specific scenarios can lead to a rear-end collision.
When the rear driver is liable
One of the most common ways the rear driver is at fault is when they speed and don’t have enough time to stop before hitting the vehicle ahead. Tailgating and failing to yield the right of way can also cause rear-end accidents.
Distracted driving is a common reason for rear-end accidents. If a driver is doing something else that takes their attention away from their driving, they can strike the car directly in front of them. Disregarding traffic signs and signals like a stop sign can also cause rear-end collisions.
When the front driver is liable
It’s rarer for the front driver to be responsible for a rear-end accident, but there are scenarios where it could happen. One is when the driver suddenly stops; this might be due to distracted driving or if an animal suddenly darts out into the road. A front driver may also be liable if they suddenly make a turn without using their signal or go into reverse; in most cases, that happens in parking lots.
Regardless of the exact cause, rear-end accidents can lead to devastating injuries. When you can establish fault, you have a better chance in your case.