[BabyBlueDeuce]

Like I said it depends on the situation but yes it is often better to let somebody else hit you rather than you hitting somebody else to avoid being hit.

Sorry!! I started at the bottom of the page, and replied to Judy before I saw your post.

At this point, I'm trying to work out this whole crazy accident business in my head, and come up with a contract that both parties can sign, that will absolve me of any future responsibility on this matter, before I pay for anything.

Do you think it is unreasonable to ask the other party to pay for a portion of the repairs?

[nikosmom]

In your particular situation, since you were in forward-moving traffic and the person in front of you reversed, you would have been better off not moving and more than likely they would have been 100% at fault because they should have looked to make sure the way was clear.

BUT... since you backed up and essentially did this same scenario to the guy behind you, you're at fault. Judy is saying the possibility that the other guy could be assigned partial fault may be determined by the specific circumstances. Was he driving too fast in the parking lot and therefore didn't have enough time to stop? Was he coming around a sharp corner where neither of you saw the other? Those are just some examples that could contribute to him being partially responsible.

That is why we've all suggested seeking the aid of your insurance company so they can help sort out fault and it's always possible that you may not be responsible for 100%. Possible. Even if you are, at least with them handling things, this whole thing will be behind you much sooner.