Hit from behind car accidents can happen to even the most cautious, experienced of drivers, whether due to a momentary loss of concentration, an unfortunate situation that just couldn’t be avoided or a myriad of other common causes.
Determining who was at fault, and is therefore responsible for the damages, can be a little confusing in hit from behind car accidents, however there are some general guidelines to follow in these circumstances.
When there are two cars involved in the rear end collision, it is usually the driver who hit from behind who is deemed to be at fault and liable for damages.
However, if there are two cars involved and one rolls back into the car behind, regardless of how close the vehicle behind was, the driver at the front is generally at fault.
In accidents where three or more cars are involved, determining which driver was at fault can be a little more tricky. In some cases, the last car in the pile up may be deemed responsible for the damage to each car involved, or if the cars in front had already collided, the last car may only be deemed responsible for the one immediately in front.
Proving exactly what happened can depend on how forthcoming the other drivers are with information and also if there were any other witnesses to the accident.
If you have insurance, after you report the accident to your insurer and exactly what you believe happened, they will make a determination on who they believe was at fault and therefore how it will affect your insurance and excess.
Where there are drivers involved in a hit from behind car accident who don’t have insurance and there are difficulties proving who was responsible for the accident and therefore subsequent damages, it may be necessary to take legal action. Each state has different resources and processes available for taking such action, so contact the transport authority or Legal Aid in your state for guidance if you find yourself in this situation.
Getting around while your car is being repaired
One of the biggest inconveniences associated with any car accident is being without your car until it is repaired. Having your car repaired at a mechanic or panel beater can take days or even weeks, so you’ll need to organise alternative transport in the meantime.
If you rely on your car regularly, getting a rental car can be the most convenient option as opposed to relying on friends, family or public transport. The cost of the rental car doesn’t have to come out of your pocket either – for drivers who are not at fault, they are entitled to have a rental vehicle with the cost being paid for by the at-fault party.
When you take advantage of an accident replacement vehicle through Acorn Rentals, the cost of renting the car is charged directly to the insurance company of the driver who was at-fault. You don’t even need to pay a deposit or give your credit card details, which can help make a difficult time a little easier.
