Tailgating Accidents
Car Crash Lawyer Serving Massachusetts Drivers
There are many pet peeves that drivers develop during their time on the road, and tailgating is probably one of the most common. When a driver follows another vehicle too closely, it can lead to an otherwise avoidable accident because the driver does not have enough time to react to a sudden change in their surroundings, such as the driver in front needing to stop suddenly. When these accidents happen at high speeds, the outcome can be devastating or even fatal for the victim, as well as any passengers in the vehicle that was engaged in tailgating. Massachusetts car accident lawyer Barry A. Feinstein understands how stressful a collision like a tailgating accident can be, and he is ready to help you fight for the outcome that you deserve while protecting your rights.
Tailgating Accidents in Massachusetts
There are many different reasons why drivers engage in tailgating, but none of them are proper excuses. In some instances, a driver may simply be impatient or wish to drive in excess of the speed limit, while in other circumstances, the driver may be running late for work or an important event. In today’s world, many drivers are busy looking at their cell phones while they are driving, which means that they may not realize that they are traveling too closely to the vehicle in front of them. If there is a sudden change in traffic, an accident is almost sure to happen.
It can be hard to prove that the driver behind you was tailgating you, which is why retaining an experienced personal injury lawyer is so important. Our team of legal professionals has gathered evidence and conducted investigations into many different types of car accident cases, and we understand the proof that is needed to establish your right to the compensation that you deserve. Surveillance cameras, eyewitnesses, and police reports are just a few examples of the evidence that may help prove your case.
Liability in Car Accident Lawsuits
In a personal injury lawsuit, there are certain things that the plaintiff is required to prove before he or she will be deemed entitled to compensation from the defendant. In general, the plaintiff and their attorney must show that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty to drive with reasonable care and that the plaintiff suffered injuries as a result of the defendant’s failure to drive according to that duty. When we get behind the wheel of a car, we each have a duty to drive according to the traffic laws, taking into account any road hazards or weather conditions. We must also ensure that we are driving safely and that we are not putting others at risk. Tailgating does not fit within this standard.
When it comes to showing the causal connection between the defendant’s lack of due care and your injuries, it is important to show that there was no other substantial factor to blame. Although many people presume that a rear-end collision means that the driver in front cannot be held liable, there are times when the driver who collided with the lead car may not be liable. An example would be a situation in which that driver had a heart attack or stroke and was not able to control his or her movements and driving response time.
As for damages, plaintiffs in these lawsuits often seek compensation for past and future medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, reduced quality of life, and more.
Retain a Knowledgeable Massachusetts Attorney Following a Car Accident
If you have been involved in a tailgating accident, you probably have many questions about your next steps. Our team of legal professionals, led by Attorney Barry A. Feinstein, is here to help you understand the legal aspects of your situation and explore whether you are entitled to compensation. We are available to serve clients in areas around Boston, Cambridge, Waltham, Lowell, Newton, Somerville, Quincy, Dedham, Norwood, Brookline, and Peabody. Call us at (800) 262-9200 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.