Am I liable for costs in hit and run if I was the third car in a chain reaction?
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Am I liable for costs in hit and run if I was the third car in a chain reaction?
I was driving down the interstate to work this morning in a normal, heavy morning commute. Traffic on the 5 lane interstate started to slow as there where accidents ahead. I was in the far left hand lane. As I began to slow down I got a jolt to the back of my car, rear ended. I pulled to the shoulder, as did the person who hit me. He got out and asked if I got the guy’s plates who hit him? I didn’t see anyone I said. I didn’t know anyone had hit you. His car obviously was hit by another vehicle and that vehicle left his bumper and parts behind. I am told by my insurance company that I will have to pay my high
deductible for any damages. I do not understand this. Wasn’t it the car behind me that was at fault? Rear-end accidents are always the fault of the person from behind. We were still moving, say 40 mph. He wasn’t 4 car lengths back as law dictates. I didn’t hit the person in front of me. Where is the justice?
Asked on January 30, 2017 under Accident Law, Indiana
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
In a chain reaction three car rear-end collision, the car that hit the car behind you is liable for the accident and the damage to your vehicle. The car that was pushed into you after being hit by another car is not liable for the damage (cost of repairs) to your vehicle.
Since the first car fled the scene, unless that vehicle is located and the driver is apprehended, it is unknown whether or not that driver had insurance.
At this time, since the hit and run driver has not been identified, it is assumed that there is no insurance. Therefore, to have your car repaired, you will have to file an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance company which is why you are being compelled to pay your deductible.
Your insurance adjuster and agent are correct.
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