Hundreds of car accidents happen each year in which one driver fails to stop and rear-ends the car in front of him. Pennsylvania follows the “assured clear distance rule”, which has been codified as part of the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
This rule requires that a driver has to be capable of stopping his vehicle at all time – within the clear distance in front of him. Regardless of the speed limit, a driver has to drive slow enough so he can safely stop within the visible space in front of him. This includes the need to account for many factors including weather, lighting or other conditions affecting visibility, such as the crest of a hill. A driver is also required to anticipate that the vehicle in front may slow down or stop suddenly. It is not a defense that the first vehicle stopped too quickly. Where a rear-end collision occurs, there is a legal inference that the second driver failed to maintain the assured clear distance.
If you are injured in a rear-end collision, you may suffer injuries and damages for which the law permits a financial recovery. These can include wage loss, medical bills, pain and suffering, and also damages for your spouse (loss of consortium).
For more information and a consultation, contact our Law Firm Supinka & Supinka PC.
