Q: I was cited in Tennessee for OPERATOR TO USE REASONABLE CARE. I was given the option to plea guilty or no contest.
I was changing lanes and didn't realize the car in front of me came to a complete stop. I ended up rear-ending her. Both cars totaled. Neither one of us was injured. I am given the option to pay fine online. Should I plea no contest or guilty? I am also supposed to check waive right to a trial and waive my right to an attorney. What should I do?
A: Either plea means you are guilty of the Rule of the Road Violation. That means negligence per se when you are sued for causing damages to the car you hit. If you have insurance, call them and ask for advice. If you try it, you will lose anyway. It will be alot better if your insurance company pays off the victim/possible plaintiff and get a release. Take the release and copy of the insurance check to Court to show Restitution has already been made. If no insurance, and you cannot pay the victim in full, at some time in the future DOS will suspend your TNDL.
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