Am I liable for an accident if I stopped suddenly and the driver behind me crashes into me?

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Am I liable for an accident if I stopped suddenly and the driver behind me crashes into me?

Aren’t they supposed to keep a safe distance away?

Asked on October 2, 2013 under Accident Law, New York

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 10 years ago | Contributor

The answer is yes, following drivers should keep a safe distance away...but safe is defined in relation to reasonable or expected driving behavior. If you stopped abruptly when there was no reason for a following driver to think you might be stopping (no traffic light or stop sign; no cross walk; no traffic slowing or stopping ahead of you; etc.), then you may be at least partially at fault, and thus partially liable for any damages.


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