My daughter received a summons for a rear end accident

[Calista241]

21. There is ALWAYS a violation of law in any accident.

Following too close, failure to yield, speeding, careless driving, etc. Take your pick. The fines for these violations are usually less than $500. They hurt your wallet, but are usually not bank breakers.

Showing up to court affords a violator the opportunity to get out of the ticket. In the OP's case, the guy has shown up to court and pled "Not Guilty." The state then has to prove its case, that this guy was careless or that he was following too close, whatever the charges are.

They prove their case by subpoenaing the OP's daughter. If she shows up and tells the truth, the guy will be found guilty. If she doesn't show up, the state will most likely drop the charges. If it's a minor traffic violation, there will be no repercussions for the OP's daughter. The OP can find out by looking at the subpoena and seeing what court she's been summoned to. Traffic court or municipal court or something like that if it's a traffic violation. If it's a superior court or magistrate court, then it's most likely for more serious charges.