Can Someone Else Be at Fault in a Single-Car Accident?

Single-car accidents are quite common. They include crashing into an object, spinning or skidding, flipping over, and running off the road — any accident that involves no contact with other vehicles. It’s rare that someone other than the driver was at fault, but it is possible that another person’s negligence was the cause of the accident. In such cases, you could avoid liability and even be entitled to compensation.

Avoiding Collision

An accident could happen because you’re avoiding collision with another driver. For instance, the other driver could move into your lane without warning or you may need to swerve to avoid an accident that has already happened. This could cause you to crash into an object like a guardrail or fire hydrant or even a building,

Similarly, you could collide with an object to avoid hitting a pedestrian or cyclist who unexpectedly moves into your path. Provided you are driving safely (undistracted and not exceeding the speed limit), you may have a case that you were not at fault.

Defective Vehicle

Manufacturing defects stop your car functioning as it should. Your brakes could be faulty, meaning you’re unable to stop the car. Alternatively, misalignment could mean that the car fails to operate as you expect.

In these kinds of accidents, it is sometimes possible to file a product liability lawsuit. To win your case, you will need to prove that it was the defect that caused the accident. This will allow you to recover damages incurred due to the negligence of the manufacturer. Damages usually cover injuries and property damage.

An exception to the above is when the vehicle has already been recalled for a known defect. In many instances, a large batch of vehicles have the same defect and the manufacturer recalls them. In addition, if you were aware that you had a mechanical problem but continued to drive the car, it will be difficult to argue against your own negligence. You should have received a repair before the defect could cause an accident.

Poor Driving Conditions

It is the responsibility of the city or municipality to ensure that roads are in good condition. This includes filling potholes and fixing hazards or at least putting up warning signs.

In many accidents caused by poor driving conditions, it is difficult to make the argument that you were not at fault. Normally, you should have been driving more carefully and at a reduced speed. However, if you hit a large obstruction that was impossible to see and there were no warning signs, you may be able to avoid liability.

When You Are at Fault

In most other cases, you likely are at fault for your single-car accident. In addition, if you are found to be driving under the influence, you will need to pay restitution.

It’s often difficult to know if you can claim that someone else was at fault. If you believe that this could apply to your case, the best thing to do is contact an attorney who specializes in car accidents. A consultation will allow you to discuss your case and figure out what action would be appropriate to take next.

Contact an Elizabethtown attorney or Elizabethtown lawyer or a lawyer in your State to see what steps are next.