If I’m Involved in a Rear End Collision in Boise, Idaho, Who is at Fault?
Rear end collisions account for 32% of all car accidents in the United States. Since they are so common, it is important for drivers to understand how to claim for damages in the event of a rear end collision in Boise, Idaho. The first step in doing so is to determine who is at fault.
Is the Rear Vehicle Always at Fault in a Rear End Collision?
In many rear end collisions, it is assumed that the vehicle at the rear is the one that is at fault for the accident – but, this is not always the case. The vehicle in front could be liable for the accident if it can be proven that they were not driving safely at the time of the rear end collision.
There are many situations in which the leading driver could be at fault, including:
- Reversing suddenly
- Stopping to make a turn but not taking the turn
- Having non-functioning brake lights
- Having a flat tire but failing to pull over and engage their hazard lights
In the cases where the rear vehicle is responsible for the accident, it is likely due to their failure to:
- Pay attention to the road
- Drive at a reasonable speed
- Maintain control of the vehicle
- Stop within a reasonable time
- Use turn signals properly
- Follow other vehicles at a safe distance
As such, it is important to document as much information about the accident as possible and obtain testimony from witnesses. Their statements can help confirm that the other party was at fault, whether you were the rear driver or the leading driver. This is crucial in determining how much compensation you can claim after your collision.
What Damages Can I Claim for After a Rear End Collisions?
When you’re involved in any car accident, you are able to claim compensation for a number of costs that you will incur. An experienced car accident lawyer in Boise, Idaho will help you claim for any damages that you experience as a result of an injury or vehicle damage. These are some of the damages that your car accident attorney can help you claim for:
Medical Bills: You can claim compensation for injuries that must be treated by medical professionals. This applies to long-term and short-term treatment.
Vehicle Damage: In a rear end collision, your vehicle is likely to be damaged. Whether you need a replacement part or vehicle repairs, you can claim compensation for these costs.
Pain and Suffering: As a car accident can be a traumatic experience, you may be able to claim for emotional distress that affects your ability to work.
Loss of Income: The injuries that you sustain after being in a car accident may render you unable to work or may require you to take a job that is less physically demanding. You may be able to recover the income that you miss out on as a result of being involved in a rear end collision.
Whatever damages that you incur, an experienced car accident attorney will be able to help you to claim the compensation you deserve. They will be dedicated to getting you the reimbursement necessary to get on with your life after such a traumatic event.
How Are Damages Awarded in Boise, Idaho?
Idaho is a proportional comparative fault state, which means that fault in car accidents is assigned based on percentages. Then, compensation is awarded accordingly. If you are less than 50% responsible for the rear end collision, then you’ll be able to claim for damages. If you are 50% or more at fault for the accident, then you cannot make any claims.
Furthermore, the amount of compensation you can claim is based on how at fault you are. For example, if you were 20% responsible for the accident, then you will only be able to claim 80% of the damages that were incurred.
Get in Touch With a Car Accident Accident Attorney in Boise, Idaho
If you are involved in a rear end collision in Boise, Idaho, it is important that you get in touch with an attorney who is experienced in dealing with these types of cases. The team at Joe Frick Law, PLLC have dealt with countless rear end collisions and we are dedicated to helping motorists receive compensation for all of the damages incurred.