In both rear-end and left turn collisions, it’s usually readily apparent who is responsible. In most cases, the person rear-ending another car is at fault, and the person who makes the left turn is responsible. However, there are some rare exceptions, which will be discussed in the article below.
Rear-End Collisions
If you are hit in the rear, it is nearly always the fault of the driver behind you – because one of the most important rules of driving is that you must remain far enough from the car ahead of you to enable a safe stop. Damage from such a crash can tell who is responsible; if both cars have damage, the rearmost car is responsible. That person may have a claim against someone else if his or her car was pushed into yours. However, the person hitting you is ultimately responsible for your damages.
Exceptions in Rear-End Collision Cases
There are times when the driver who hit you from behind is partially or completely not responsible for your damages. Examples of partial responsibility include:
1. Where your tail or brake lights don’t work
2. Where your car stalls but you cannot get it off the street
Left Turn Crashes
A person turning left across traffic is nearly always responsible for an ensuing accident, because that person is supposed to yield to traffic and ensure that there is sufficient room to complete the turn safely.
Exceptions in Left Turn Collisions
There are few exceptions to the left turn rule, and they are hard to prove. If the other driver was speeding or ran a red light, you can be found not at fault. If the other driver started turning safely, but was forced to stop, you can be absolved of responsibility. However, that circumstance is nearly impossible to document without the help of an automobile accidents attorney in Queens County, NY.
Do I Need an Attorney if I’m Involved in a Left Turn or Rear-End Collision?
If you are in an auto accident, you may have to prove to the court or to your insurer that you were not responsible. This is a complex process, and an automobile accidents attorney with the Business Name can help you prove your case while getting you the recovery you deserve.
