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Philadelphia Tailgating Accident Lawyer
Tailgating—following a vehicle too closely—remains one of the most common causes of rear-end collisions in Philadelphia. These accidents often happen at stoplights, in heavy traffic, or on high-speed roadways like I-76 and I-95. When drivers fail to maintain a safe following distance, they leave no room to react, leading to sudden and often serious crashes.
What Causes Tailgating Accidents in Philadelphia?
Tailgating accidents happen for various reasons, most of which involve driver negligence:
- Aggressive driving: Some drivers tailgate to intimidate or pressure the driver in front to speed up or change lanes.
- Distracted driving: When drivers use their phones, adjust navigation systems, or eat behind the wheel, they often fail to notice slowing traffic.
- Impatience in traffic: In congested areas like Center City or during rush hour on Roosevelt Boulevard, impatient drivers follow too closely and cause chain-reaction collisions.
- Speeding: A driver traveling at high speed cannot stop in time if they follow another vehicle too closely.
No matter the reason, tailgating is a preventable behavior. Pennsylvania law (75 Pa. C.S. § 3310) requires drivers to maintain a “reasonable and prudent” distance behind other vehicles, based on speed and road conditions. Violating this law is not just a traffic offense—it can also serve as key evidence in your claim.
Common Injuries from Tailgating Accidents
Even at low speeds, tailgating accidents can cause serious harm. Victims often suffer:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Spinal cord trauma
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Facial fractures and airbag-related burns
In higher-speed crashes, injuries can be life-altering or fatal. Medical costs, lost wages, and emotional trauma place an enormous burden on victims and their families.
Who Is at Fault in a Tailgating Accident?
In most cases, the rear driver is at fault. Pennsylvania law and common driving principles support the idea that drivers must maintain enough space to stop safely. However, there are exceptions. If the lead driver suddenly slammed the brakes for no reason, drove with malfunctioning brake lights, or merged unsafely, they may share fault. Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence system (42 Pa. C.S. § 7102), which means you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your share of liability.
Why Hiring a Philadelphia Tailgating Accident Lawyer Is Critical
After a tailgating accident, you may face pushback from insurance companies, especially if they try to claim you share responsibility. Hiring an experienced Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer levels the playing field. Here is how they can help:
- Proving liability: A Philadelphia tailgating accident lawyer will collect crash reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and expert opinions to show who caused the accident.
- Handling insurance negotiations: Insurers often offer quick, low settlements. A Philadelphia tailgating accident attorney will fight for full compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Understanding the law: Pennsylvania’s no-fault system, liability rules, and statute of limitations (two years) all affect your case. Your Philadelphia tailgating accident lawyer will make sure you meet every legal requirement.
- Focusing on your recovery: While you heal, your Philadelphia tailgating accident attorney handles the legal stress and ensures your rights stay protected.
Tailgating accidents are preventable and often avoidable. If you suffered injuries because someone followed too closely, a skilled Philadelphia tailgating accident lawyer can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Call Rosenbaum & Associates at (215) 569-0200 or message us online to arrange a free consultation today.