Legal Question in Traffic Law in Florida

At Fault ??

3 weeks ago, I was involved in an accident in Sarasota, FL. While commuting to work that morning, we came to the ''circle'' where it is required for vehicles to stop for pedestrians in crosswalk. The car in front of me slowed as she entered the area, as did I. I then saw the car move out into the circle, when my eye caught the large waste mngmnt truck to my right begin to pull out towards me. Since I had already seen the car in front of me drive through the crosswalk, I slowly began to accelerate so that the truck wouldnt hit me. What I didn't realize is that the car in front of me had suddenly slammed on her brakes and I was unable to stop in time without hitting her. Why she stopped I don't know for certain but I can tell you this..a moment later, a friend of hers came out of Starbucks (right where she had stopped so suddenly), hugged her and began taking pictures. I was unable to move from my vehicle was left to wait for the police and ambulance alone and then be removed by backboard. I have suffered injuries to my neck and lower back which my insurance will pay for after a $1K deductible. Her repair costs will be covered by her insurance. Now I am left to pay a ticket and wonder who was really at fault here ??


Asked on 8/06/08, 9:52 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Aaron Slavin Slavin Law Firm, LLC

Re: At Fault ??

If you hit her from behind the police will probably say you were at fault. Of course, neither I, nor the police, where there when it happened, so we don't know. Nonetheless, the general rule is... if you hit someone from behind, then you are at fault.

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Answered on 8/06/08, 9:59 am


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