Three Car Rear End Collisions in Florida (2024)

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Another very common type of car accident is the three car rear end collision. There is a lot of confusion as to whether one or two cars are at fault and who you can sue. This blog entry will discuss some of these issues. Bear in mind that every case is case specific and it is important to have these cases analyzed. At Drucker Law Office, the injury attorney Gary Drucker helps clients analyze their car accident cases and helps clients recover monies from the at-fault owner/driver or owners/drivers when they are injured in an accident.

Generally, the three car rear end collision happens in two different ways. First car in front is stopped; second car behind is stopped; third car crashes into second car which causes second car to crash into first car in front.

In this first scenario, the third car is generally at fault. If the second car was just stopped behind the first car, then the second car of course would generally not be at fault. Similarly, if the first car was stopped at a light, then it would not generally be at fault either. So, in this scenario the third car is at fault. Oftentimes, I will be asked by the person in the first car if they can sue or make a claim against the second car and generally the answer is no, as the second car is not at fault. In this scenario, the second car was stopped and the only reason it hit the first car was because the third car hit it from behind.

The second way these accidents can happen is as follows. First car in front is stopped; second car behind crashes into first car in front; third car crashes into second car which causes second car to crash again into first car in front.

In this second scenario, both the second car and third car are generally at fault. The first car, presuming it was stopped at a red light for example, would generally not be at fault. From the perspective of the first car, he would have a claim against both the second and third car for his or her injuries.

Of course, every case is unique and has to be judged on its individual merits. In order to evaluate these cases, a jury will listen to the testimony of the drivers of the car, any passengers, any witnesses and the policeman (although his testimony would be limited to only what he saw, not to any conversations with the drivers; see the accident report privilege blog from earlier) and to look at pictures of the cars and the intersection and any other evidence brought in by the parties.

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Three Car Rear End Collisions in Florida (1)

Three Car Rear End Collisions in Florida (2024)

FAQs

Three Car Rear End Collisions in Florida? ›

If the second car was just stopped behind the first car, then the second car of course would generally not be at fault. Similarly, if the first car was stopped at a light, then it would not generally be at fault either. So, in this scenario the third car is at fault.

Who is at fault in a 3 car rear-end collision in Florida? ›

Understanding Fault in Multi-Car Collisions:Usually, in rear-end collisions, the driver who hits another car from behind is considered at fault due to the assumption that they were not maintaining a safe distance or were not paying attention.in a multi-car pile-up, the car that initiated the chain reaction is often ...

What is the average payout for a rear-end collision in Florida? ›

Depending on circ*mstances, the average payout for a rear-end collision in Florida can range anywhere from $175,000 to $435,000 in compensation. Rear-end accidents can cause significant injuries. However, if the vehicle following is traveling at a lower speed upon impact, the damage may be lesser.

Is Florida a no-fault state for rear ends? ›

Florida is one of a minority of US states that apply a “no-fault” system to auto insurance. If you are involved in a rear-end car accident, your first resort is your own insurance (known as “personal injury protection” or PIP insurance), no matter whose fault the accident was. The same applies to the other driver.

What is the three-collision rule? ›

Motor vehicle crashes involve three types of collisions: vehicle collision, human collision, and internal collision. Being aware of the three collisions concept and understanding the dangers allows occupants to understand where and how their injuries occur.

Who is usually at fault in a rear-end collision? ›

Generally speaking, the driver who rear-ends the leading car is legally responsible (liable) for damages resulting from the accident. But there are exceptions to the rule, including: Thanks !

How do insurance companies determine fault in Florida? ›

For that to happen, the negligent party or parties must be established. In Florida, insurance company adjusters will typically determine fault. They will review police reports, driver accounts, and any other information collected that relates to the incident.

How much can you get for pain and suffering in Florida? ›

Generally speaking, there is no cap on the amount of damages that can be awarded for general pain and suffering in Florida. However, if the lawsuit involves medical malpractice, then there is a limit of $500,000 that can be awarded.

Who pays for collision damage in Florida? ›

In fault states, the at-fault driver's insurance company is responsible for covering the damages and injuries of the other parties involved in the accident. Conversely, in no-fault states like Florida, each driver's insurance company is responsible for covering their own policyholder's losses, regardless of fault.

How much are most car accident settlements? ›

A: In California, the average car accident settlement amount is anywhere between $20,000 – $30,000, depending on the overall severity of the injuries sustained and any associated property damages, lost wages, etc. This is for more moderate cases in terms of their severity.

Does insurance go up if not at fault Florida? ›

Generally, your car insurance will not go up after a claim that is not your fault in Florida. This is according to Florida Statutes §626.9541(1)(g)3).

Do you get a ticket if you rear end someone in Florida? ›

In general, a ticket for rear-ending someone in Florida may result in fines of several hundred dollars or more, as well as points on your driving record. Additionally, if the accident resulted in injuries or property damage, you may be liable for additional costs such as medical bills or repair expenses.

What does Florida no fault insurance cover? ›

For example, after an accident, one's No-Fault coverage would pay $10,000 towards personal recovery. Personal Injury Protection pays 80% of medical bills, 60% of lost wages, and 100% of replacement services costs (any service needed because of a loss of ability caused by the accident).

Who is at fault in a 3 car accident in Florida? ›

The driver all the way at the back who first made contact is most likely at fault for the crash. That driver would be held liable for damages and injuries inflicted on the two drivers in front.

What does three collisions mean? ›

There are actually three collisions in every crash: the vehicle collision; the human collision; and the internal collision (inside your body). Read Three Collisions (PDF) | Three Collisions video. Three Collisions in a Crash - For Your Safety and Awareness.

Who is at fault in a 3 car rear-end collision in Texas? ›

Since Texas follows the doctrine of modified comparative negligence, both motorists can be held liable for the rear-end collision. In rare cases, however, neither driver is to blame for the accident.

Whose insurance pays in a multi car accident Florida? ›

Because Florida is a no-fault state, each party's PIP insurance will be the first source of recovery for their respective losses–up to the limits of their insurance policies. If the damages are extensive, the first party and their insurance are responsible for the excess.

Is Florida a no-fault car accident? ›

Florida is a no-fault automobile insurance state. This means that drivers must carry personal injury protection insurance (PIP) to pay for their medical expenses and other accident-related damages, regardless of who caused the collision.

Who is held liable in case of collision? ›

Besides the driver involved in a car accident, various individuals might be held liable for injuries and losses from the collision. These can include: Vehicle Owner: The owner of the car could face liability in a car accident if they recklessly entrust their vehicle to a driver who subsequently causes the accident.

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