Car accidents happen in a variety of ways, often when you least expect it. From fender benders, to high-speed head-on collisions, the scenarios are almost endless. One of the most common kinds of car accidents are rear-end collisions. Most folks think determining fault in a rear-end accident is pretty straightforward. But as a car accident TN attorney, I can tell you that’s not always the case.

If you find yourself in this situation, whether you’re the driver in the front or back (or even the middle), it’s important to know how to determine fault in a rear-end collision.

The rear driver in a rear-end accident is not always at fault.

Liability in a rear-end collision is not automatic. Something that often surprises folks is that the driver in the back may not be at fault. In fact, it is possible that the rear driver is only partially to blame, or even not to blame at all.

The driver in front may have more to do with the accident than it first appears. This includes circumstances like:

  • Reversing into the rear car
  • Drunk driving
  • Intentionally trying to get hit
  • Driving with broken brake lights
  • Pulling over on the side of the road without warning

The driver who is responsible for causing the accident may be liable to the other driver and passengers for damages in a personal injury lawsuit.

Rear-end accidents involving more than one car.

Sometimes rear-end collisions aren’t only with one car. They can occur with two, three, even four or more cars, creating a pile-up.

For example, if the car driving behind you rear-ends you as you are slowing down, and in so doing causes you to rear-end the car ahead of you, then you may be able to prove that the driver tailing you is ultimately at fault for any injuries or property damage sustained by the driver you rear-ended.

Determining Fault.

Tennessee is an at-fault state. This means the driver who is found at-fault for an auto accident is legally and financially responsible for damages and injuries that resulted from the collision. This makes determining liability one of the most important aspects of any car accident case.

That being said, the process of determining fault in a rear-end accident can be overwhelming. You might have to rely on eyewitness testimony, review the police report to see if it contains helpful evidence (like debris or skid marks), or you might need an inspection of one or both vehicles. Hiring an experienced car accident TN attorney can make all the difference in whether or not you receive the compensation you deserve.

Speak to an experienced car accident TN attorney for FREE.

If you’ve been involved in a rear-end accident, don’t worry. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Our team of knowledgeable and experienced car accident attorneys can get you the justice you deserve. For a FREE evaluation of your case, give us a call at 901-327-2100 or contact us online – no strings attached.

Car accidents never happen at a good time, but we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible, so you can get back to living your life. Call us today to hear how we can help.