San Francisco Auto Accident Lawyers/Attorneys

San Francisco Car Accident Lawyers
Helping Those Harmed by Tailgating

When people follow drivers in front of them too closely, they are inviting many different types of danger for both themselves and for anyone in the immediate area at the time.  When San Francisco car accidents occur because someone was following too closely, a practice known as tailgating, the trailing driver will usually be found liable in a California personal injury lawsuit that would follow.  Anyone who has been harmed in this manner should seek the immediate help of experienced San Francisco car accident lawyers, and below is a brief introduction to this ongoing traffic problem.

What Is Tailgating?

Tailgating is a common mistake whereby a driver follows the vehicle in front of him or her too closely.  Generally, people are taught to allow at least two seconds of following time between their front bumper and the vehicle in front of them in the city and to leave four seconds between themselves and a lead vehicle on the highway.  These numbers can vary a bit from place to place, but the general idea is to provide enough room to maneuver in case sudden action is necessary.

How Can Tailgating Lead to Mistakes?

Tailgating can lead to mistakes for many different reasons and in many different ways, and these mistakes can be made by either the lead driver or the trailing driver, even though both scenarios could lead to a finding of fault by the trailing driver.  Clearly, mistakes could be made by the trailing driver if the lead driver brakes suddenly or slows down for some reason and there is not enough time to avoid a collision.  However, the lead driver could also make a mistake by making a sudden move because he or she is nervous about having a vehicle following too closely.

Why Are Trailing Drivers Usually Liable for Tailgating Accidents?

Generally, trailing drivers are found liable for accidents because they are the ones who are in a position to avoid the lack of space between the vehicles.  In addition, the lead driver is found to be negligent many times because he or she is not following general traffic rules and laws, and trailing drivers should be in a better position to avoid a collision than the lead driver.

How San Francisco Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash because someone was following too closely, you need to seek the help of San Francisco car accident lawyers who have been holding those responsible for this conduct accountable for many years.  Contact the Scarlett Law Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.