Can A Front PA Driver Be Responsible For A Rear-End Accident?

Rear-end accidents are a common type of car accident and determining fault can be complex, depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. While the driver who rear-ends the other vehicle is typically considered to be at fault, there are certain scenarios where the front driver may also be held liable for a rear-end crash.

Even if a major insurance company is attempting to deny or rescue your financial recovery, there could be a path to compensation. To have the details of your situation assessed by a legal professional, connect with a Bucks County personal injury attorney.

When a Front Driver Could Be Liable

There are a variety of scenarios that could lead to a front driver being held liable for a rear-end collision. It’s also possible that both drivers could be found to carry a degree of responsibility. For instance, if the front driver was stopped on the roadway, without cause, and the rear driver was distracted, both drivers may be held liable for an accident.

Examples of front driver liability for rear-end crashes:

• Stopping without warning. A vehicle that suddenly stops or parks, without cause or warning, is a risk to others on the roadway. If a crash were to occur as a result of their reckless behavior, they could be held liable for the accident.
• Unexpected moves. Illegal turns, erratic lane changes, and other surprising moves are dangerous and it may be difficult to impossible for a driver behind them to react in time, leading to a rear-end crash.
• Mechanical failures. If it can be proven that the accident happened because there was an issue with the front driver’s vehicle that they knew about and should have fixed before taking the car out on public roadways, the front driver could be deemed negligent.

Naturally, rear drivers have a legal duty to maintain a safe distance between themselves and other vehicles when driving, so proving that a front driver holds some or all of the fault for an accident can be complicated. Consult with a lawyer who is familiar with Pennsylvania’s car accident laws to better understand your rights and options.

Determining fault in a rear-end accident in Pennsylvania is not always a straightforward process, but a Bucks County personal injury attorney has the skills to determine who should be held responsible. In general, a rear driver is often considered to be at fault, but there are certain scenarios where the front driver may also be held accountable. This could be true for you, an attorney can review the facts and inform you for your options.

Are you recovering from a PA rear-end collision injury and believe the driver in the front position was the at-fault driver? Determining liability can be complicated, the legal team at Kardos, Rickles & Hand has the experience and training you need. With years of securing favorable outcomes for clients, the attorneys at Kardos, Rickles & Hand listen with compassion and aggressively fight for the maximum settlement amount possible To schedule your no-cost consultation, call 215-968-6602.