Being involved in a vehicle accident can be a terrifying experience, especially if it is not your fault. If you get into a rear-end accident, talk to a lawyer. Here is what you need to know about rear-end collisions.

What Are Rear-End Collisions?

This is a collision where one car hits another car from the rear. These accidents are not as severe as side-impact accidents and head-on collisions because those in front of the car are not near the area of impact. Furthermore, rear-end crashes often occur at low speeds.

In rear-end collisions, the common assumption—in many cases—is that the rear driver is to blame for the collision. However, this is often not the case. The rear driver may defend themselves by assigning blame to the front driver.

How Do You Determine Fault in Rear-End Accidents?

Drivers should give the car in front of them a safe distance. This is because a motorist may suddenly slow down or even stop, especially during traffic jams.

If you are the one charged with a rear-end collision, your car accident lawyer can prove that the car that was rear-ended was negligent. Negligence arises if:

• The driver suddenly reverses
• The driver stops to make a turn but doesn't
• Failing brake lights
• The driver has a flat tire but doesn't use the vehicle's hazard lights

The legal impact of the motorist's negligence will depend on how your state deals with accident cases in which more than one person is liable. In states that follow contributory negligence laws, the victim in a rear-end collision may fail to recover any damages if you prove they contributed to the accident. On the other hand, states that follow the comparative negligence laws will award damages depending on one's degree of liability.

What Is the Liability for Rear-End Collisions?

A negligent driver who causes an accident can be held civilly and criminally liable. To be compensated in a rear-end accident, you must prove negligence. First, it must be shown that you breached your duty to drive safely.

Additionally, the complainant must show that your negligence caused the collision, resulting in their injuries or losses. If you're found guilty, you may be liable to pay for medical damages, pain and suffering, property damage, and loss of wages. Your car accident lawyer will disprove the complainant's claims and absolve you of fault or show that the complainant also contributed to the accident.

To find out more about what to do in collision situations, contact a professional firm such as Lawson Law, P.C.