Traffic accident
Question Details:
I was involved in a wreck on the interstate. The man rammed the back of me and slammed me into a guardrail and him into a tree. He admittedly had a drink(alcohol) about 30 minutes -1 hour before the wreck. In the police report it says he fell asleep and used the word fatigued as a reason for the wreck and his condition. The officer told me he was going to perform some alcohol tests on him and no where in the report does it say he did so. It says that no alcohol was suspected even though he admitted to it. Just wondering if I have any chance of a court case?
The very fact that you were hit from behind while driving gives you the ability to make a claim against the driver for negligence. Did the police cite the driver for any violations at all? Regardless of the officer's report, you may file a lawsuit for the property damages based on the fact that the driver was following too closely and failed to maintain his vehicle in a reasonably manner. I suggest that you go to the hospital to determine whether you have any serious injuries as you may be able to claim pain and suffering damages and property damages. You need to hire a lawyer to place the other driver's insurance carrier on notice and then file suit if there is no settlement.

If the other driver was negligent--or unreasonably careless--he would be liable and you should be able to collect in a court case. Certainly, DUI/DWI would show negligence, but so would driving while too fatigued or falling asleep at the wheel. (Also speeding, texting or phoning while driving, bending down to change the radio and not paying attention, having bad brakes, etc.) While it's not a given that the rear driver in this sort of crash was at fault, it most likely is the case, and there are many ways to show negligence.
Before suing though: is it worth it? First, how much non-compensated (i.e not paid by insurance) damage or costs have you suffered? If it's not at least a few thousand dollars (or long lasting or permanent disability or scarring), it's probably not worth it. Also, if you win, does it appear the other driver could pay, whether by insurance, income, or assets? It's a hollow victory to sue, win, and still not be paid.


Are you a lawyer?