How to Determine Liability in a Three-Car Rear-End Collision?
2 Answers
As long as the leading vehicle did not intentionally change lanes, the responsibility lies with the following vehicles. The second vehicle is responsible for the first vehicle, and the third vehicle is responsible for the second vehicle in terms of compensation. Below is an introduction to liability division and relevant regulations on rear-end collisions: Liability Division in Rear-End Collisions: The first vehicle is not at fault; the second vehicle is responsible for the damages to the first vehicle and the front part of its own vehicle; the last vehicle is responsible for the rear damages of the second vehicle and its own damages. If there are no casualties and the parties involved have no disputes over the cause and liability of the accident, traffic police should resolve it on the spot according to the fast-track procedure. Relevant Regulations on Rear-End Collisions: According to Article 43 of the Road Traffic Safety Law, 'When motor vehicles are driving in the same lane, the following vehicle should maintain a safe distance from the leading vehicle sufficient to take emergency braking measures.' Whether the vehicles are driving in the same lane is key to determining the liability of both parties in the accident. The most important thing is to clarify whether the rear-ended vehicle had already merged into the lane at the time of the incident and whether there was any forced lane-changing. If the rear-ended vehicle did not violate traffic regulations and had indeed merged into the lane, then the following vehicle should bear full liability for the accident. However, if the rear-ended vehicle was at fault in lane-changing, both parties should bear the liability for the accident according to their respective proportions of fault.
That time on the highway, I encountered a three-car pileup and almost got involved myself. Generally, the driver of the last car is held fully responsible by traffic police because traffic regulations emphasize that the following vehicle must maintain a safe distance—a rear-end collision often indicates failure to do so. The middle car might seem unfairly treated, but if dashcam footage shows it suddenly slammed on the brakes or committed other violations, some responsibility may be shared. Remember, when traffic police arrive, they first take photos and videos; gather as many witness statements as possible. For insurance claims, having a liability report prevents disputes. I always maintain a three-second gap from the car ahead, especially in rainy conditions with poor visibility—prevention is far better than dealing with consequences. In short, safety first—don’t speed—to avoid such troubles.
