Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 5/13/2010

Question
I was the third car in a line of traffic. The first car abruptly stopped, the car in front me stopped and I rear-ended the 2nd car. I have received the surcharge notice but do not know if it is worth appealing on the basis that the first car fled the scene, the driver of the car I hit noted in his report the first car stopping abruptly and that his car completely shut down when he slammed on the breaks. I did not see the break lights for more than a second. Additionally, the damage to the car I hit included a tiny dent on the bumper. Lastly, I was not cited.

Answer
Hi Alan,

You should not waste your time with an appeal because you will lose. The fact that the first car left the scene is irrelevant. Any time you hit someone in the rear you are considered at fault. You are required under the law to maintain safe distance and be aware of what is goin on around you at all times. This is so that you have time to react to avoid a collision when something occurs.

I hope this helsp
Richard Hixenbaugh