Is the trailing driver always at fault in a rear-end collision?

In most rear-end collisions, yes. South Carolina law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance and to be prepared to stop. Because of this, there is a strong legal presumption that the trailing driver was negligent. There are rare exceptions, such as when the lead vehicle’s brake lights are not working or when a third vehicle forces one car into another. However, the trailing driver bears the burden of proving those circumstances existed.