Tailgating is dangerous for everyone who drives on Los Angeles roadways, especially in heavy traffic. Most drivers have experienced someone following them too closely. In some situations, drivers engage in tailgating because they are aggressive or reckless. Tailgating increases the risk of a rear-end collision, which can result in serious injuries.
If you’ve been the victim of a car accident involving tailgating, it’s vital that you understand your rights and how to proceed to obtain compensation for your damages. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group have a proven track record of recovering significant compensation for auto accident victims. Contact Saeedian Law Group to discuss your case with a skilled personal injury attorney.
What Constitutes a Tailgating Car Accident
Tailgating refers to the practice of following the vehicle in front too closely. Also called “riding the bumper” of the leading vehicle, tailgating is a dangerous driving behavior that increases the risk of a collision between the front and rear driver. Rear-end collisions occur when a driver is struck from behind by the vehicle behind them. When a driver tailgates, he or she puts everyone on the road at risk.
The likelihood of a collision increases due to failing to allow enough space to react or stop in case of an emergency. Tailgating can cause the driver behind him or her to hit the leading vehicle when it suddenly slows down or stops. The front driver may feel pressured to drive faster or make unsafe impulse-based decisions.
Proving Liability in a Rear-end Accident
Rear-end car accidents are among the most common types of car accidents in California and throughout the United States. People may assume that rear drivers are nearly always at fault for rear-end accidents. However, each car accident is different. In many cases, the tailgating driver will typically be at fault in a rear-end accident, but not every case. Proving liability and recovering compensation can be difficult when you’ve been involved in a tailgating car accident.
California has specific rules to prevent rear-end collisions that may result in the front driver being at fault for the accident. The front driver has a duty to use reasonable care when driving. If the lead driver fails to use reasonable care by driving negligently or recklessly, he or she can be held liable for the damages. Negligent conduct that could result in liability for the front driver includes the following:
- Backing up on the road
- intentionally trying to be rear-ended
- Pulling out in front of another vehicle
- Driving without operating brake lights
- Intoxicated driving
- Suddenly braking without cause
Rear-end accidents could involve several vehicles. A rear-end accident begins a chain reaction, with each vehicle colliding with the vehicle in front. Liability for multi-vehicle rear-end accidents can be difficult to determine. In some cases, the lead driver could be partially at-fault for the accident. California’s contributory negligence laws state that the party’s percentage of fault should reduce a victim’s compensation for damages. When multiple drivers could share liability, accident reconstructionists, and other experts may be required to provide evidence related to liability.
Damages Available in a Tailgating Accident Claim
The value of a tailgating accident claim depends on multiple factors, including the extent and severity of your injuries. The value also depends on whether you shared the fault and how long it might take for you to recover your damages fully. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group can evaluate your claim and help you understand the damages that may be available in your case. We frequently work with financial and medical experts to carefully estimate the full extent of your future medical expenses. The following types of damages are available in personal injury claims:
- Past and future medical expenses necessary to treat your injuries
- Past and future income losses
- Property losses
- Past and future physical pain and suffering
- Compensation for disability
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement and scarring
- Reduction in the ability to enjoy life
- Other losses associated with your injuries
The Benefits of Working with a Tailgating Accident Attorney
Pursuing compensation for your injuries can be challenging, especially if you’ve been seriously injured and are in the process of recovering. The insurance agent representing the at-fault driver may begin contacting you immediately after the accident, asking you to provide a recorded statement. Without hiring an attorney to represent you, you may inadvertently admit fault and hurt your claim for compensation. You may miss important deadlines that could jeopardize your claim.
The personal injury attorneys at Saeedian Law Group understand what you’ll need to prove to recover damages. We can manage the entire process for you from start to finish. When you work with Saeedian Law Group, we will gather evidence, make liability determinations, interview witnesses to the accident, and negotiate with the insurance company for you. If the insurance company refuses to settle your claim fairly, we can pursue a civil lawsuit and pursue your case through the court process.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in California?
If you’re considering pursuing a claim against the at-fault driver who caused a car accident, it’s crucial that you speak to an attorney as quickly as possible. California has a statute of limitations that places a strict time limit for filing personal injury claims. Getting help as soon as possible after the car accident to prevent evidence from being lost. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group will ensure that you do not miss any deadlines for filing your claim and will quickly begin investigating your claim and gathering evidence supporting your case.
Discuss Your Case with a Los Angeles Tailgating Accident Attorney
Victims injured in tailgating accidents can be left with painful injuries that require a significant recovery period, missed work, and significant medical bills. The attorneys at Saeedian Law Group will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and determine the best legal strategy to obtain the full and fair amount of compensation we need and deserve. Contact Saeedian Law Group to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.
