Rear-end collisions happen every day in Connecticut, and Torrington sees its fair share of these accidents, as well. Many people involved in rear-end car accidents believe that the person in the rear vehicle is automatically to blame for the collision, but that isn’t true.

Building a strong case to show who is at fault for the crash is vital to your successful recovery of financial compensation, which is why working with the Torrington rear-end car accident attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, is recommended. Our experience spans more than 100 combined years. Our in-depth knowledge and specific case experience with rear-end collisions make us an ideal choice for representation in and around Torrington.

Who is At Fault for a Rear-End Collision in Torrington, CT?

While fault is often placed on the rear driver in a rear-end collision, the front driver can also be to blame in some scenarios. The rear driver is commonly considered at fault because the assumption is that they were following too closely or not paying attention to the road ahead, otherwise they would have had time to stop and avoid the collision. This may make sense as a general concept, but the unique hazards of driving present numerous circumstances that prove this assumption wrong.

The front driver could be responsible for the accident in the following scenarios:

  • They cut off the rear driver or swerved in front of them
  • Their taillights or brake lights were not working
  • They stopped quickly and suddenly without reason
  • They were driving aggressively and brake-checked the vehicle behind them

Torrington uses the state’s fault-based system in car accident cases, including rear-end collisions. This means that fault must be established to determine who is liable for the injuries and damages caused by the accident.

Modified Comparative Fault and Torrington Rear-End Car Accidents

Connecticut’s modified comparative fault system says that injured parties may be able to recover damages if they are less than 50% responsible for the collision. Even partial liability does not preclude you from recovering compensation, but your fault must not exceed the other driver’s fault.

If a court determines that you are partially responsible for the rear-end car accident, your compensation will be decreased by your percentage of fault. For example, if Driver A followed too closely behind Driver B, and Driver B brake-checked Driver A, they could share in liability for the accident. In this case, suppose Driver A was awarded $25,000 in damages but was 40% at fault for the rear-end collision. Driver A’s final compensation amount would equal $15,000.

Experienced Rear-End Car Accident Attorneys in Torrington, CT

The car accident lawyers at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, are happy to provide personalized legal guidance regarding your rear-end collision. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to legal strategy, which is why we take the time to listen to the details of your case and form an individualized plan that will maximize your chances of recovering compensation.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss your rear-end car accident case.