Skip to Content
Top

Who is actually to blame for a rear-end crash?

|

People often rush to conclusions after crashes. Some individuals want to avoid taking personal responsibility whenever possible. People may lie to themselves about how unsafe their behavior in traffic actually is. Others simply lie to law enforcement professionals during the crash investigation process.

On the surface, rear-end crashes may seem easy to analyze. However, the details of the situation can directly influence which driver is at fault for the crash and therefore which driver is liable. Determining who is at fault for a crash is an important concern. Fault for the collision influences eligibility for compensation and liability for the losses of others.

The Rear Driver is Often to Blame

People tend to assume that the driver in the rear vehicle is at fault in a rear-end crash scenario. After all, many rear-end collisions are the result of one motorist failing to maintain an appropriate following distance. They get too close to another vehicle in traffic, and then they cannot stop in time when something unexpected happens. Tailgating is a leading cause of rear-end collisions, and drivers who can prove that the vehicle behind them was too close can potentially hold the driver of the rear vehicle accountable for the resulting wreck.

The Front Driver Might Be at Fault

The rear driver isn’t always the party responsible for a rear-end collision. Sometimes, the driver in front did something unsafe that caused the crash. Oftentimes, a failure to maintain a vehicle or use communication systems is to blame for a rear-end collision. Drivers who fail to use their turn indicators or who do not maintain their brake lights can cause a rear-end collision when other drivers don’t know what they intend to do. Maneuvers in traffic can also be the underlying cause of a crash.

Sometimes, one driver cuts another vehicle off by turning or merging in front of it with little forewarning. Drivers who do not leave adequate space when turning or merging and who do not bring their vehicles up to speed quickly can cause a rear-end crash because the driver behind them doesn’t have sufficient time to respond.

Rear-end collisions can cause injuries ranging from whiplash and broken bones to amputation and death. It is, therefore, crucial to establish who is that fault if one party requires compensation after a wreck. Providing appropriate information to police officers can help them determine who is at fault for a recent rear-end crash. An accurate police report may help an injured party pursue an insurance claim or initiate civil litigation following a collision.The post Who is actually to blame for a rear-end crash? first appeared on Haxel Law .

Categories: 

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Haxel Law at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Hear From Our Happy Clients

At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "5 Stars"
    He was thorough and did not allow me to be taken advantage of by the employer's insurance
    - Ruby A.
    "What a great experience!"
    I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!
    - David S.
    "No One Better"
    I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.
    - John M.
    "Marty was great to work with!"
    He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.
    - Kristi D.
    "I will definitely use Haxel Law again!"
    I’m so grateful for the legal assistance I received from Haxel Law. Martin is extremely knowledgeable and guided me throughout the process. I recommend Martin Haxel. He’s no nonsense and gets the job done. If needed I will definitely use Haxel Law again.

    - Sally B.
    "Thank you, Martin."
    When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.
    - Chris Y.
    "Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"
    Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.
    - Jim P.
    "Someone You Can Trust"
    Marty has always given me sound, pragmatic advice. Straightforward and honest opinions whether on a consult or a hire. Always puts the client first.
    - Bob P.