Getting into a rear-end accident in Washington can create a significant domino effect depending on who is at fault. You will need to know who is at fault in a rear-end crash if you want to file a car accident claim to get compensation.
If you have sustained rear-end accident injuries, you need to hire an auto accident attorney in Washington to represent your claim. At Henderson Taylor Law Firm, our team of auto accident lawyers has handled hundreds of rear-end accidents in Washington and can help you file a claim to receive a settlement.
Keep reading to find out who’s at fault in a rear-end crash and whether or not the vehicle in front could be found to be at fault.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents in Washington
To figure out rear-end collision fault in the state of Washington, you often need to look at what caused the accident. In many cases, how the accident occurred can determine who is at-fault, which can help support your case.
Here are some of the most common causes of rear-end accidents in Washington:
- Distracted driving
- Speed
- Tailgating
- Driving while intoxicated
- Driver fatigue
No matter what ultimately led to the collision, you need to seek legal help after a rear-end accident. An auto accident attorney will be able to help you with every step of the process, from filing your claim to negotiating a fair settlement amount.
Washington Rear-End Laws: When the Front Driver May Be at Fault
When it comes to proving fault in a car crash, you need to understand the Washington laws. Like the majority of states in the US, it is most common for the rear vehicle to be found at-fault for rear-end collisions. This is because vehicles need to maintain a safe distance that allows them to avoid hitting the vehicle in front of them if they need to come to a complete stop.
However, it isn’t always the fault of the rear driver as both drivers could share the fault depending on the situation. For example, the vehicle in front may have had faulty brake lights, resulting in the rear vehicle not knowing when they were stopping. Or, the driver may have been driving illegally, such as making illegal lane changes or driving while intoxicated.
Additionally, the vehicle in front could be found to be entirely at-fault in some rare situations. For example, they may have cut the rear driver off and then slammed on their brakes, not allowing the rear driver enough time to stop. Or, they may have put their vehicle into reverse at a stoplight or stop sign, hitting the vehicle behind them.
It is essential to have substantial evidence proving fault so that you aren’t blamed for the accident, whether you are the front or rear driver.
What to do After a Rear-End Accident
Now that you know more about the traffic laws in Washington state and who is at-fault in a rear-end accident, what should you do after this type of car collision? In many instances, following the right steps after an accident can have a substantial impact on your ability to get compensation later on.
Here is a breakdown of the steps you need to take directly after a rear-end collision in Washington:
- Call 911 and check for injuries: Immediately after the accident, you need to check yourself and any passengers in the vehicle for injuries. You also need to call 911 to request that law enforcement and an ambulance be sent to the collision scene.
- Exchange information: No matter the accident, you are legally required to exchange contact and insurance information with all of the involved drivers. However, avoid discussing the accident or admitting any type of fault when you do.
- Gather evidence: If you aren’t seriously injured, it is always a good idea to document evidence at the collision scene directly after the accident. Take photos of any injuries and property damage as well as the collision scene if you think that it will be useful. You can also look around to see if there are any surveillance cameras that may have caught the accident on camera. If there are witnesses, you can get their contact information so that you can use their witness statements later on in your claim.
- Notify your insurance provider: As part of your insurance policy, you are required to notify your provider regarding any accidents. Make sure you do this within the designated timeline and avoid providing more detail than necessary, especially when it comes to fault.
- Hire an auto accident attorney: Although you do not need to do this immediately, you do need to seek legal representation before you file your car accident claim. An attorney can help you do this, as well as negotiate a fair settlement to cover your damages.
Hire an Experienced Car Accident Attorney at Henderson Taylor Law Firm
If you have an injury from being rear-ended in Washington, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. Before you pursue a claim, however, you need to get legal help after a rear-end accident since proving fault can be challenging.
At Henderson Taylor Law Firm, our car accident lawyers are committed to defending the downtrodden and helping Washington residents prove car accident liability so that they can get the compensation they deserve. For expert legal representation from one of our attorneys, contact us today at 360-737-1478 or fill out our online form.
FAQ:
Is the rear driver always legally at fault in Washington?
Although the rear driver is commonly at fault in Washington, it is possible for the front driver to be at fault as well.
Can I be partially at fault if I was rear-ended?
In Washington, it is possible for both drivers in a rear-end collision to be partially at fault.
How can an attorney help prove fault in a rear-end crash?
A car accident attorney can help you gather evidence to prove who was at fault and can help you file a thorough claim. They will also handle negotiations on your behalf to ensure you get a fair compensation amount.
