When it comes to determining car accident fault, there are several things you need to know. This legal guide has you covered.
Every time an accident occurs, whether it's an auto accident or any other type of accident, you need to ask yourself, what caused the accident? If it was your fault, you should expect to pay for any damages.
If you're pursuing a claim for auto damage, we have some tips to help you how to determine car accident faults. Keep reading to learn more.
Comparing Vehicle Damage
Comparing vehicle damage is a key component in determining who is at fault in a car accident. In an accident, the parties involved can often recall different versions of the events leading up to the collision. This can mean an insurance company needs physical evidence to determine which party is liable.
By comparing the damage done to each vehicle involved, they can oftentimes tell which driver was more at fault. For instance, if a pickup truck is involved in a collision and the front end is severely damaged while the other car only has minor damage, such as a cracked bumper, it is more likely that the pickup truck was the one at fault.
Assessing Liability Insurance Coverage
Those involved in the incident must first verify that each party has valid liability insurance coverage. For example, if the policyholder is at fault for the accident, then their liability coverage should be sufficient to cover any damage expenses.
Liability coverage limits should also factor into assessing fault, as the at-fault driver may only be financially responsible up to their policy limits while additional damage may not be covered unless additional coverage is acquired.
With the Help From Professionals
When determining fault in a car accident, hiring a lawyer and involved with them can be extremely helpful. Professional auto accident attorneys, car accident claims adjusters, and private investigators can use their extensive expertise to review the evidence and build a clear picture of what happened.
They can assess various pieces of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and physical facts, to determine who is at fault for the crash.
Experts can also view crash scenes, inspect skid marks, and evaluate vehicle damage to come to a conclusion as to the cause of the crash. By bringing in professional lawyers for suing, fault can quickly and easily be determined, providing clarity to those involved and their insurance companies.
Examining Driver’s Actions Prior to Impact
When examining drivers' actions prior to impact in relation to car accident fault, the main focus is to distinguish who is responsible for the accident. Various factors that could contribute to the accident, such as speed and weather, can be difficult to prove. However, looking into the driver's actions prior to impact may be a more telling detail.
Details such as swerving, evasive action, or a sudden stop would imply that the driver was avoiding a collision and more likely to be
- A victim
- While tailgating
- Sudden accelerations
- Veering
- Overlooking traffic signals
It may lead to driver fault. Determining the fault and responsibility of an accident can be a lengthy, tedious process; however, examining the driver's actions prior to impact can be key in making an accurate decision.
Learn More About Car Accident Faults Today
The best way to determine a car accident fault is to gather as much information as possible through documentation, eyewitnesses, and other evidence.
A lawyer can help you assess fault and build a strong case for recovery. If you've been in a car accident, don't hesitate to reach out to a lawyer to determine fault and get the compensation you deserve.
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