Auto Accident.. I think I’m at fault but just wanted to verify.?
I was driving on I-5 and all of a sudden a car way in front of me changes out of the exit lane and gets into my lane, causing all the cars in front of me to slam on their brakes. I tried to slam on them as well but soon realized it was getting me no where and decided to swerve into the lane next to me and hope no one was there.
Someone was there and from where I was hit, rear quarter panel, I’m guessing he was on my rear bumper or a little behind me at the time I switched lanes and didn’t notice all the people in my lane slamming on their brakes. I didn’t have time to turn on my signal and we crashed. In a perfect world that benefits me, the person who changed lanes initially is to blame but he drove off free and easy. So, is this 100% without a doubt my fault or can I somehow manage to make a case out of this somehow?
Any input would be helpful. I have too many bills and the last thing I need is a major insurance hike. Thanks!
Legally, you have an obligation to be able to stop if the person in front of you slams on his/her brake. Although that guy up ahead was a jerk – clearly you didn’t meet your obligation or his bad driving would not have caused you to have to change lanes.
Sorry kiddo – this is your fault – you were following too close, and as a result of that mistake, made an unsafe lane change resulting in an accident. That was probably a good decision, had you slammed into the car in front of you, there would have been a good chance of injuries, which it sounds like you avoided here.
Live and learn!
