Legal Question in Traffic Law in Maryland

Who's at fault in a 3-car accident

I was making a left turn at a green arrow from a northbound divided highway toward west. I suddenly noticed a car that violated the red light and coming southbound in a collision course with me and stopped to avoid that crash. But, the car behind me rearended my car, and the car behind it (a police car) rearended that car causing it to hit my car for a second time. The car that violated the red light got a citation. Both parties behind me agree that I was not at fault, but there is a disagreement about how they will share the damage to my car. The insurance company of the first car says that part of the damage was because that car pushed by the police car so they should share the damage 50-50. The county says that it was not the policeman's fault at all because there was already a crash which required the policeman to stop more abruptly than normal. I would appreciate any advice about whose fault it is and how to proceed.


Asked on 2/11/02, 11:00 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Who's at fault in a 3-car accident

First and foremost, you ask about a three car accident when

it appears that legally this was a four car accident. The causation

needs to be well defined in this case.

What you are describing is a chain of causation and the

related legal disputes that arise as a result. These

matters can be complex and an attorney's representation is

highly advised. I can assist you with obtaining the insurance

coverage that you are entitled to receive.

Were there any injuries as a result of this collision? This matter

will certainly bring further complications. If personal injury protection is

involved, my services are highly recommended so that these funds will be used for

your benefit and not for the benefit of your health insurer. Bodily injury claims

should be administered through an attorney as auto insurers are likley to underpay the claim

where the claim is made without an attorney.

At this point I am wondering why the action has not remained with the tortfeasor (i.e., the driver that received the citation).

There are several key legal matters that need to be addressed here. Contact me for a free initial telephone discussion.

G. Joseph Holthaus III

(410) 799-9002

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Answered on 2/11/02, 11:45 am


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