Are You Always at Fault if You’ve Been in a Single-Car Accident?

If you’ve had a single-car accident, you are probably wondering if you even need to call a personal injury lawyer about your case. There were no other drivers involved, so it must be your fault, right? You may be surprised to find out that this isn’t always the case. In fact, there are many scenarios in which you may not be at fault.

What Is a Single-Car Accident?

Just like it sounds, a single-car accident is an accident in which your vehicle is the only vehicle involved in the wreck. They can occur in several scenarios, including swerving to avoid hitting an animal or responding to actions by another driver. In many cases, you may be held solely at fault for the accident, but there are situations in which a car accident lawyer may be able to help you claim damages, or prove the accident wasn’t your fault.

Problems with the Road

When you meet with a Virginia car accident attorney for your free consultation, they may ask you about the condition of the road you were driving on. Problems on the road or problems with road signs can cause people to have accidents. You may encounter a stoplight that isn’t working or a large pothole that causes you to swerve and lose control of your car. Additionally, proper road signs may not be present or properly visible to warn you of specific road conditions such as sharp turns or steep hills.

Issues with the road or signs can be difficult in terms of liability, but your car accident lawyer may be able to help build a liability case against the city or the county that maintains the roads. If you are in a single-car accident, you should always take pictures of the scene — photos may especially be helpful in cases such as these.

Other Negligent Party

There doesn’t always have to be another vehicle involved for another party to be at fault for your accident. If another person or driver acts negligently and causes you to react and hit another object, they may be held liable for the accident.

For example, if another driver swerves into your lane and you quickly react to avoid them, you may end up hitting the guardrail on the side of the road. Your lawyer may be able to help you build a case so you that aren’t held at fault for the accident.

Another common cause in single-car accidents is defective or dangerous vehicle parts. Some of the major issues that have resulted in recalls, injuries, and even death for many victims include defective airbags and defective ignition switches.

Contact Our Office Today

There are many factors in a single-car accident, so if you experience one, don’t automatically assume you are solely at fault. A Virginia car accident attorney will evaluate your case and determine if there is a party who is actually liable for the injuries and losses you have suffered. Call our office today to schedule a free and confidential consultation and find out how we can help.

 

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