Many people assume the driver in a single-car accident is liable for the crash. However, this is not always the case. It may be possible to build a claim against someone who contributed to or caused the collision and recover compensation.
If you believe another party played a significant role in your single-vehicle crash, our team wants to hear about your case. We offer complimentary case assessments and could help fight for your financial recovery at no upfront cost.
Possible Liable Parties in a Single-Vehicle Crash
Many people believe that identifying the liable party in a single-car accident should be easy, but this is not always the case. In fact, it is sometimes more difficult than in a collision case involving two or more cars. This is because the liable party may not suffer damage in the crash, may leave the scene, or may not be a motorist at all.
The possible liable parties in a single-car accident include:
The Driver Involved
According to the latest reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the driver behind the wheel of the vehicle involved is often the liable party in a single-car incident. Speed, distractions, and drowsiness are common factors that lead to these crashes.
Another Motorist
In some cases, another motorist may contribute to or cause a single-car accident, even if their vehicle sustained no damage and they do not appear to be directly involved at first glance.
Another driver could run the victim off the road, force them into another lane, or cross over the centerline. Alternatively, a truck could lose its cargo—such as gravel or fluid – causing the victim to swerve to avoid the debris. If another driver caused your accident, it is imperative to get enough information about them to identify them to the police and your insurer.
A Third Party
Sometimes, it is the road itself that causes the problem. If the road is defective or especially dangerous because of its design, structure, lack of proper signage, or inadequate maintenance, you may have a case against a third party. For example, this could include: the designer, builder, or an agency tasked with maintaining the road.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Document the Accident Scene If Possible and Tell Police What Happened
While some drivers stop after this type of incident, many do not. If you believe another driver caused your accident, you need to gather as much information about them as you can, such as:
- The make and model of their vehicle
- Anything distinguishing
- Their tag number
You will also need to take steps to document the scene if your injuries allow. This process includes taking pictures, noting any skid marks or other potential evidence, recording witness names and contact information, and ensuring the responding officers hear your side of the story.
Without witness accounts and additional evidence to support your allegations that another party contributed to the crash, it may be difficult to prove a case against them.
Working with an Attorney to Build a Case Against the Liable Parties
You may want to enlist an attorney to help with your claim against the at-fault driver or third party. Trying to gather evidence and prove this type of case on your own could be highly stressful and challenging. Our legal team knows how to show that another party acted negligently.
If a third party caused the accident, you may have to go toe-to-toe with a municipality, another government agency, or a large corporation. Special rules may apply in these cases, and an attorney from our firm can help you ensure you follow all of them. We will protect your right to take legal action against whoever caused the crash when we represent you.
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Building a Case Against the at-Fault Party in a Single-Car Accident
Our personal injury law firm will pursue compensation on your behalf based on the facts of your case. This compensation could come from:
- Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the driver is not identified
- The other driver’s auto liability coverage
- The liability policy of a company or government agency
Recoverable damages may include:
- Medical care
- Lost income
- Property damages
- Additional expenses and losses
- Pain and suffering
The time limits on filing a lawsuit vary by state. In general, you could have between one and four years to get this process underway. However, you may have less time if the case is against a government agency, municipality, county, or parish government, or another local, state, or federal entity.
Morris Bart, LLC, Will Review Your Car Accident Case with You Today for Free
You can talk to a representative from the Morris Bart law firm today at no cost to your family. We will review your case with you and offer our opinion on whether you have a liability claim based on your single-car accident. We are a contingency fee law firm serving Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Call (800) 537-8185 to discuss your case today.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
