Determining Fault in a Car Accident

Who is at fault after a car accident?

When a car accident occurs, it is part of legal procedure to determine who is at fault. This also serves the insurance companies in the critical steps of filing an insurance claim or personal injury suit. Determination of fault plays a large role in the outcome of a personal injury case and associated claims.

The person or entity determined to be responsible for a motor vehicle accident is usually financially and legally responsible for damages and injuries suffered by others involved in the crash. One individual driver may be held accountable for these damages or multiple parties may be deemed at fault. When multiple parties are involved, damages may be divided between those parties according to their role in the accident.

Determining Fault: The Process

There are several principles applied in determination of fault. These usually help lead to clarification of blame or negligence in the accident, even when involved parties disagree about the circumstances of the wreck.

My Car has a Manufacturer Part Defect and it Caused a Crash

Defective car parts can lead to car accidents - Speak with an injury lawyer if you are a victim of manufacturer defect

Today's automobiles are much safer than ever before. Technology, devices and equipment ensure passengers and drivers are well-protected. Seat belts, road and vehicle condition monitoring computers, crumple zones, airbags and warning indicators help drivers avoid accidents, also protecting everyone in the vehicle when a crash happens.

But sometimes those protective systems fail. Like any equipment, technology or mechanical device, these systems can be defective due to improper manufacturing or faulty installation. When people "soup up" their car using aftermarket additions, those may also interfere with the vehicle's safety or performance.

Causes of Truck Rollover Accidents

Rollover Semi Truck Accident

Many fatal truck accidents are the result of vehicle rollovers. When a semi-truck rolls over, other vehicles in its path are unable to stand up to the truck’s size and weight. Trucks often swing across the roadway, as well. This can sweep aside vehicles in its path. Statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) report shows a decline in deaths of large truck / semi trucks occupants over the last 20+ years. 

But many truck rollover accidents are actually preventable. They may be prevented by understanding their causes and adjusting driver behaviors or other factors to prevent the catastrophic results of truck rollover accidents.

When a rollover accident involving a truck occurs, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced rollover truck accident attorney. Such an attorney can investigate the accident and develop a case for victim compensation for injuries or other damages.