One of the most common types of auto accidents is the rear-end collision. These can be dangerous for the driver of the front vehicle because he or she can potentially suffer shoulder, neck, or spinal damage – or even a traumatic brain injury.
In all but a few cases, the driver of the “rear-ending” car or truck will be at fault. Therefore, this driver would be liable for property damage to the “rear-ended” vehicle, as well as any injuries sustained by the victimized driver.
The underlying logic behind this determination lies in traffic laws which state that all drivers must be given room to stop when a vehicle stops in front of them. With that in mind, it is the responsibility of the “trailing” driver to follow at a safe distance in order for such a stop to occur safely.
There are a few exceptions, depending on the circumstances of the case, to this hard and fast rule.
- If a pickup truck causes a five-vehicle “chain reaction” rear-end collision in Green Valley, the driver of the pickup is liable for the damages to all of the wrecked vehicles (as well as the injuries of the corresponding drivers).
- If a car backs into a van on a sidestreet in Pahrump, the car is to blame for the collision.
- If a minivan suddenly stops in the middle of I-15 for no reason and is struck by the traffic behind it, the minivan’s driver might be responsible for the accident.*
- If the driver of a sports car stops in the middle of a North Las Vegas roadway to drink alcohol, smoke marijuana, or engage in some other illegal activity, he or she may be responsible for any ensuing rear-end accident that may occur.
If you have been the victim of a rear-end collision in the Las Vegas area and have suffered injuries as a result, contact a qualified personal injury lawyer as soon as you can.