Rear-end collisions are defined by Ohio Revised Code 4511.21A, called the Assured Clear Distance statute. All drivers have a responsibility to drive their vehicle in such a way as to be able to bring it to a stop to avoid an accident. If a reckless or negligent driver hits the back of your vehicle, leading to injury, you may be able to recover monetary compensation for your losses. You can trust our team of Columbus rear-end car accident lawyers will work with you to collect evidence, file a claim, negotiate with insurance companies, or take a case to court when necessary. A Columbus car crash attorney can be the ally you need to protect your rights and to hold a dangerous driver accountable.
The most common scenario for a rear end car crash is when someone’s stopped at a traffic light and, for whatever reason, the other driver doesn’t see or misjudges the distance and they rear-end that person. Another common situation is when someone is waiting a traffic light and the light turns green, and maybe the cars don’t begin to move right away. Regardless of the scenario, if another driver ran into the back of your vehicle due to negligence, you are likely owed financial compensation.
Assigning Fault in A Rear-End Auto Wreck
Drivers have a duty to operate at a speed that will permit them to stop within the assured clear distance ahead. What that means is that drivers have a duty to go at a slow enough speed and to be far enough behind another vehicle that, if that vehicle in front of them stops for whatever reason, they can stop as well. Accordingly, fault is usually assigned to the driver in the back in Columbus rear-end car crashes.
If a driver behind another vehicle fails to stop, then they are generally guilty of violating this statute, which establishes their negligence and liability. It is very rare when the driver who was rear-ended would be found to be at fault.
Who is at Fault in a Multiple Car Rear-End Crash?
In a multiple-car rear-end collision, it is essential that a driver contact an attorney, as accurately determining fault can be more difficult than in other, single vehicle cases. In cases where there are multiple impacts, drivers may face difficulties in proving causation. In accidents where one person causes the initial contact, leading to the other hits, that first person will likely bear responsibility. However, this model has some problems because, if there are multiple impacts, each separate insurance carrier will try to assign blame.
Proving Liability
For our Columbus rear-end car accident lawyers to prove that a driver should be held liable for the damages resulting from a crash, we must find independent witnesses. Having a third-party who was not involved in the accident can help attorneys, investigators, and judges objectively determine if the defendant should be held liable. It is also important that we look on the scene for skid marks, admissions of fault from the rear driver, or evidence that they were distracted while driving. Many rear-end car crashes in Columbus are caused by drivers who are texting, but our lawyers can help you hold them accountable.
Let an Attorney Fight for You Today
In the wake of a crash where a driver hit the back of your vehicle, you may be unsure of what to do. To learn more about your rights and options for financial recovery, call our Columbus rear-end car accident lawyers today to schedule a consultation.
