September 4, 2024
Who Is Liable for Rear-End Car Accidents?
If you have ever experienced a rear-end car accident, you know the shock accompanying the sound of your car’s bumper crunch. It is natural to take some time to process the immediate aftermath of the collision, but once the initial shock subsides, many people may wonder about liability and the financial impact of the accident.
In most cases, the driver in the back who rear-ended the vehicle in front bears responsibility for the accident. In Pennsylvania, all drivers must maintain a safe following distance to avoid collisions in case of sudden stops.
However, this general rule has exceptions. Hazardous road conditions could decrease liability if they adversely affect the rear driver’s ability to control their vehicle. Unexpected and unforeseen vehicle malfunctions could also reduce the rear driver’s burden of liability, as could any reckless driving practices by the driver in front.
For example, if the lead driver in a two-car accident reverses suddenly, stops suddenly for no evident reason, or has broken brake lights, the liability for the accident could shift away from the rear driver.
Who Is Liable in a Multi-Car Collision?
Determining liability becomes much hazier in multi-car accidents involving more than two cars. Sometimes, in what is called a “chain-reaction collision,” a driver gets rear-ended and pushed into the car in front of them, which then possibly causes more collisions in front of them. In these instances, the initial driver who caused the chain reaction is often held liable for the damages to all involved vehicles.
However, as with two-car collisions, each vehicle must maintain a safe distance from the car in front of it. If the middle car in a multi-car collision fails to keep that safe distance, it could share some of the liability for the accident. Depending on the situation, other factors, such as distracted driving and speeding, could influence liability.
What Should You Do Immediately After a Rear-End Collision?
Before anything else, call 911 to report the collision and to seek medical attention for any injuries you sustained, even if you do not feel hurt. Some injuries take time to show symptoms.
Then, collect as much evidence as possible to protect your interests. Request a copy of the police report and medical record generated by your report to 911. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, and insurance companies. See if anyone who saw the accident would be willing to tell you what they saw.
If you decide to pursue compensation for your accident and need to prove your side of the story, all these actions can go a long way.
What Role Do Lansdale Car Accident Lawyers Play?
Unfortunately, the post-accident legal scenario can feel overwhelming and isolating. Insurance companies will fight to pay you as little as possible, and the other driver might dispute your claims. An experienced car accident lawyer can relieve much of the mental and emotional strain by gathering and preserving evidence for you, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court. They will protect your rights.
Find Legal Help by Speaking With the Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C.
If you or a loved one has experienced a rear-end collision, let our seasoned Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. help you establish liability and pursue a claim for your damages. Call us at 267-861-7100 or complete our online contact form for a free consultation. Our offices in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania serve clients throughout Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.