Traffic law question

[Eos]

Rolled up on a car slowing down at a railroad crossing today. The other car and I were it for at least 100 feet either direction. They really slowed down, to 5mph or less. I slowed down and rolled over the tracks and accelerated at a normal rate of speed.

Can a car just stop for no apparent reason?
Would there be a reversal of liability (the rear-ender is liable normally, afaik) if a person rear ended that nearly stopped car that really shouldn't be stopped?

I've not encountered this before.

 

[olds]

Some vehicles have to stop before crossing tracks. From your description, it doesn't sound like this is the case.
In your scenario, if you had hit him, you'd be at fault.

 

[Eos]

Yeah, I thought so. This is why I pay attention while driving. Most people I think would not expect someone to be slowing down to such a speed when there is no apparent reason to. Then, BAM! Neck injuries and totaled cars... :frown:

 

[Insomniator]

Yeah 99% of the time if you hit the person from behind it is your fault. The basic idea is that one should always be paying attention so even if the person is completely stopped in the left lane of a highway, you should obviously be able to see him in time if you are paying attention.

 

[cubby1223]

Originally posted by: eos
there is no apparent reason to.

No apparent reason you're aware of. That's why you pay attention to everything around you.

 

[boomhower]

In most places its called assured clear distance. Short of someone pulling out in front of you just fast enough that they get into the lane of travel and you then rear end them there is no other logical scenario that comes to mind where you can hit someone the the back and not be at fault. No I am not counting spinning cars or any other wild ass things that could theoretically happen.

 

[MartyMcFly3]

Originally posted by: Insomniator
Yeah 99% of the time if you hit the person from behind it is your fault. The basic idea is that one should always be paying attention so even if the person is completely stopped in the left lane of a highway, you should obviously be able to see him in time if you are paying attention.

This. :thumbsup:

 

[Christobevii3]

If someone slammed on their brakes in the middle of the highway or "brake checked" you, then you might have a chance at getting something.