How is Fault Assigned in a Rear-End Wreck?

If one car crashes into the back of another vehicle, the driver of the first car will most likely be found at fault for the crash. However, there may be situations when the hit driver is partially to blame. Though most may think that fault in rear-end collisions is cut and dry, some states assign partial fault, including Arizona. In these situations, the lead driver may take partial fault for a rear-end accident.

Blame in a rear-end collision can be a complex issue, so addressing the case with a professional lawyer is a good idea. If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident in Arizona, call our Phoenix car accident attorneys at ELG. Our team of auto accident lawyers in Arizona is here to help with a free, no-hassle consultation today.

How to Determine Fault After a Rear-End Wreck

Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of car accidents in Arizona. Some of the main reasons for these crashes are heavy traffic and distracted driving in Arizona. Typically, distracted, impaired or negligent drivers hit the vehicle in front of them.

In most rear-end accident cases, the driver who rear-ended another car is held liable for the damages. This is usually what happens if a driver hits a stationary car stopped at a red light, in a line of traffic, or at a stop sign. The lead driver did nothing wrong to cause the accident and was following the rules of the road.

Typically, when another driver hits your vehicle from behind, they don’t have a strong argument for avoiding fault. This is especially true if their vehicle has front-end damage and yours has sustained rear-end damage.

Lead Drivers in Rear-End Accidents

But there are situations where the lead driver can be held partly responsible for the rear-end accident.

For example, the accident victim could potentially be held partially responsible if they suddenly put the car in reverse or failed to use hazard lights if they were broken down. Furthermore, authorities could hold the lead driver responsible if they stopped for no reason or drove erratically. Lead drivers who stop to make a turn but don’t turn or have faulty brake lights can also hold partial fault.

If authorities assign blame to the lead driver in a rear-end accident, the court will determine the percentage of fault. For instance, if your claim is $5,000 and authorities deem you 30% responsible, you would only receive 70% of the claim, or $3,500. This is an example of how Arizona’s comparative negligence law may be applied to your rear-end collision.

Auto Accident Lawyer in Phoenix

Drive defensively on the road and keep this information in mind to decrease your chances of a rear-end crash. However, if you sustain injuries in a wreck, contact your accident attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can work as your liaison with insurance companies. Plus, a skilled attorney can help you organize the facts of your case, making the process hassle-free.

If you’ve been injured in a wreck, contact our Phoenix auto accident lawyers at ELG today. Call us at (623) 877-3600 for a free initial consultation.