Who is at Fault For a Rear-End Accident?

Written by Jobeth Bowers. Posted in .

Key Takeaways:

  • Rear-end collisions are almost always the fault of the rear driver.
  • Getting an experienced law firm on your side can help you pursue your accident case.
  • Maryland is a contributory negligence state, which means that accident victims can only recover compensation for damages if they were in no part responsible for the accident.
  • Common causes of rear-end collisions include the at-fault driver being distracted, tailgating, and even weather conditions that make it difficult to see the lead driver’s brake lights.

In 2022, there were more than 3.6 million rear-end accidents in the US. When these crashes happen, it’s easy to be taken by surprise as a car slams into you while you’re busy driving normally. Not only is the moment itself startling and dangerous, but the aftermath could put a considerable strain on your life.

Each state has unique laws about how car accident fault works, and Maryland is no exception. At Bowers Law, we offer the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate these stressful situations effectively, making claims as painless as possible. Take a closer look at how fault works in rear-end collisions in Maryland.

Who is at Fault in a Rear-End Car Accident in Maryland?

In most cases, the driver who rear-ended the lead vehicle is at fault, though that is not always the case. Determining fault by that standard is a bit trickier when a chain reaction accident occurs, though there’s always someone who started it. Drivers are expected to maintain a reasonable distance from the car in front of them, so even if you make a sudden stop, the rear driver that hits you would likely still be at fault.

Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Maryland

image of a windshield with raindrops obstructing view of stopped vehicle ahead representing the complex nature of auto rear-end collisions

Rear-end accidents occur in Maryland for a range of different reasons. Here are some of the most common.

  • Speeding: The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more space it needs to slow down. If a driver is speeding, there may not be enough space between the speeder and the vehicle in front of them to stop in time.
  • Tailgating: Maintaining a safe following distance is essential to driving safely. Tailgating leaves too short of a distance to stop in time if the car in front stops or slows suddenly.
  • Weather: Certain weather conditions can make rear-end accidents more likely. Rain, snow, and ice can make road conditions reduce tire traction, increasing the stopping distance. Similarly, fog can hinder visibility, making it difficult to see upcoming vehicles and their taillights in time to stop fast enough.
  • Lane Changing: Drivers typically turn their entire head around when changing lanes to check their blind spot. Because of this, however, their gaze is averted from what is in front of them, so they could miss if the driver ahead brakes suddenly.
  • DUI: Impaired driving from drugs or alcohol significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time and judgment.
  • Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is any kind of driving that causes the driver to lose focus on the road. This includes texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, and more.

How Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Affects Rear-End Accident Cases

Maryland operates under a contributory negligence standard, which means that an accident victim who is partially responsible for the accident cannot recover compensation. This is particularly harsh on victims compared to the more common comparative negligence standard available in other states, which portions the amount of compensation recoverable based on how much the victim was responsible for the accident.

In terms of rear-end accident cases, Maryland’s contributory negligence standard is often not that much of a crutch for accident victims since the driver who hit the other vehicle is almost always at fault. However, this is not always the case, so it is still a good idea to get a Maryland car accident attorney to argue in your favor that you did not contribute to the accident in any way.

Why Clients Choose Bowers Law

Our Cecil County personal injury attorneys at Bowers Law have years of experience handling car accident cases. With our experience in handling the laws unique to Maryland, we have the know-how to help you in courts pursuing the compensation you deserve in the wake of an accident. With free case evaluations and a compassionate approach to our clients, you can rely on us to pursue your case while focusing on your recovery. Take a look at what some of our previous clients had to say.

Testimonials

“I called Mr. Bowers feeling anxious, confused, and disrupted, with an auto accident injury that felt like I shouldn’t rush to finish proper treatment. Jobeth personally answered my call, listened diligently before saying to me “no worries” and set me up to speak with him. My best interest is what was offered and delivered 100%, without worry, through clear and supportive communication from each member of Bowers Law for the duration of my case.” — Karen H.

“Extremely happy we found Bowers Law. Their hands-on approach is stellar. Professional, timely, and communicates wonderfully. Jobeth Bowers is always a phone call away and makes time for all his clients no matter the time or day. Thank you Bowers Law!” — Rebecca M.

Keep Your Case Moving Forward After a Rear-End Accident

A rear-end accident can be sudden and come with an array of injuries that will leave you struggling to recover. Dealing with insurance claims in the aftermath makes navigating this process even more difficult. At Bowers Law, we strive to make this process as painless as possible. Our highly experienced car accident lawyers can take on your accident claim for you while you focus on healing. Get started today by calling or texting our phone number at (410) 885-6200 or filling out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation and case review.

Frequent Answered Questions

Can the Leading Car Be at Fault in a Rear-End Collision?

It is technically possible for the leading car to be at fault in a rear-end collision, but it is very uncommon. In almost all cases, the car rear-ending the other vehicle will be at fault. Remember that this applies even in scenarios where the leading car stops suddenly. The following car should have been maintaining a safe following distance to stop appropriately without making a collision. Licensed drivers are expected to have the appropriate judgment and reaction time to prevent a rear-end collision even when the leading car suddenly slams on the brakes.

What is the Main Cause of Rear-End Crashes?

The main causes of rear-end crashes are actually twofold: distracted driving and following too closely. By following too closely or tailgating, there is not enough space for the motor vehicle to slow down, even when slamming on the brakes. Drivers are expected to maintain that safe following distance, so the following car would be at fault for the accident.

Additionally, distracted driving plays a serious role in these kinds of accidents. Having enough space between the two vehicles does not mean much if the trailing driver is too distracted to hit the brakes in time. Distracted driving comes in many forms, including anything that causes someone to lose focus while driving. This can include reading and sending text messages, talking on the phone, messing with radio controls, and more.

Jobeth Bowers

Written By Jobeth Bowers

Maryland Attorney Jobeth Bowers is the founder of Bowers Law and a graduate of the University of Baltimore School of Law

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