Will I be responsible to pay damages if I'm being sued. I was the middle vehicle in a 3 vehicle rear-ending?

Question

I was involved in a motor vehicle accident. I was in a company owned vehicle and was on company time. I was at a stop in a left turning lane with my blinker activated. A car rear-ended me resulting in me also rear-ending the vehicle in front of me. Authorities came to the scene, a report was made, one participate in the leading vehicle was escorted by ambulance to the hospital with what appeared to be minor injuries, and insurance information was exchanged. Today, 6 months later, I received a court summons that the couple in the leading vehicle is suing me personally and the person in the trailing vehicle, who actually caused the collision, for property and personal damages. I was not being negligent in any way to cause this accident. I'm unsure if my employer is responsible for cost to defend me or if I should hire a private lawyer? Also I live in AL and the law states the trailing vehicle is at fault in these type of collisions so I'm unsure how I could be included

Tim Akpinar · Answer

It would be best for an Alabama attorney to advise you, as your matter involves state-specific vehicle and traffic laws. However, in virtually all jurisdictions, the middle car (your car) in a setting such as this is usually not liable. It's not your fault that someone hit you. It's no surprise that the vehicle in front will include you in the summons and complaint, but my guess is that attorneys for your employer's insurance company and vehicle no. 3's insurance company (the one at the tail end who is to blame) will sort this out. You could seek the independent opinion of an Alabama attorney - that's up to you. Your insurance carrier might even advise you of your right to do so. Good luck

Q: Will I be responsible to pay damages if I'm being sued. I was the middle vehicle in a 3 vehicle rear-ending?