What is the test for a driver who causes a rear-end collision?

Appellant argues that a rear-end collision such as the one that occurred between appellant and respondent raises an inference that respondent was negligent. (Veh. Code, 21703 ["The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the roadway"]; see also Beck v. Kessler (1965) 235 Cal.App.2d 331, 337 ["there is a permissible inference of negligence from the fact of a

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rear-end collision requiring some explanation or excuse from the driver of the rear car"].)²