Collisions occur every day in California, and they often cost people thousands of dollars. Those involved in a collision may need to file an insurance claim. In some cases, they may even need to file a lawsuit asking for financial compensation after a collision.
The party who caused the crash must typically provide insurance coverage for those affected or be at risk of a lawsuit. The details of a crash determine who is to blame for a wreck. Who is usually at fault for a rear-end collision in California?
Multiple mistakes can cause rear-end crashes
There’s often an assumption that the driver in the rear vehicle will be legally and financially culpable for a rear-end crash. Traffic laws in California require that people maintain an appropriate following distance based on their vehicle and road conditions. Someone who follows too close to others and cannot stop without rear-ending them would often be at fault for a crash. Police officers may issue them a ticket, and the other people involved may seek compensation.
However, the driver of the vehicle in front could be at fault as well. Having burned-out brake lights, failing to use a turn signal or merging too closely in front of another vehicle are all scenarios in which the driver in front could be at fault for a rear-end crash. Police officers often need to investigate carefully to determine fault, and drivers may need to speak up so that officers know the details of the situation.
Learning more about California’s traffic laws may help people who need and deserve compensation after a rear-end wreck. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to get started.