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Why Car Accident Cases are Complicated, Even When Fault Seems Clear

Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm in
older dirty car accident smashed front rightDealing with a car accident can be very complicated, particularly when there are disputes about fault. However, accidents can be complex even when the other driver seems clearly at fault. Clear liability can make it more likely for victims to obtain fair compensation for their injuries, but it doesn’t stop insurance companies from arguing about fault. It can be difficult to prove fault and obtain sufficient evidence unless you have experience building car accident cases. Even when they are not at fault in an accident, injured parties should still seek legal representation because a competent lawyer will know how to build a strong case. Below, the Sacramento car accident lawyers of the Arnold Law Firm discuss factors involved with proving fault in various types of car accidents. If you have been injured in an automobile accident, contact us to request a free, no obligation consultation today.

Crashes Caused by Traffic Violations

Drivers have a duty to prevent causing harm to other motorists and pedestrians, which includes following traffic laws. Traffic law violations are a clear breach of duty. When an accident is caused by traffic law violations, proving fault is usually straightforward, particularly when the at-fault driver receives a citation from police for his or her violations at the accident scene. Some traffic law violations that often result in accidents include:
  • Failure to yield the right of way
  • Speeding
  • Running red lights
  • Failure to use turn signals
  • Failure to follow at a safe distance
  • Running stop signs
  • Failure to maintain control over one’s vehicle
  • Failure to drive at reasonable speeds for road and traffic conditions
However, even if the other driver broke the law, you need a strong case to recover fair compensation. Insurance companies can make the process more difficult and may still argue that you are at fault.

Left-Turn Accidents

Left-turn car accidents often involve traffic law violations. The driver who made the left turn is typically the one at fault for the accident, as it is the responsibility of left-turning drivers to yield to other vehicles if they do not have the right of way. Cutting off oncoming traffic by making a left turn on a green light is an illegal left turn. Left-turn car accidents create specific damage to the involved vehicles, which can be used as evidence to establish the type of accident that occurred and who is at fault.

Rear-End Accidents

In a rear-end accident, the vehicle that does the rear-ending is almost always partially or fully at fault. Drivers have a duty to follow others at a safe distance, in case a vehicle ahead suddenly slows down or stops. Drivers must allow themselves enough distance to avoid accidents in such circumstances. However, insurance companies may attempt arguments, such as you were too far from the stop sign or light, or you should have been moving because the light was green.

Our Licensed Attorneys Are Here to Help

Proving fault can be a challenge, even with clear liability accidents. If you were injured in a vehicle collision, the attorneys of the Arnold Law Firm are here to assist you. We have helped many car accident victims recover fair compensation for their damages. We are ready to investigate to prove fault and pursue maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Request a free, no obligation consultation today and learn what legal options may be available for pursuing compensation for your car accident injuries. There are no upfront fees – we are only paid if we recover compensation for you.

Call now (916) 777-7777 or complete our Free Case Review form now.

Settlement - $3,767,000

Truck Accident

A 20-year-old man who had been married for just 12 days left home on his way to work. He was driving on Pleasant Grove Road in Sutter County in the early morning when he came upon a slow-moving truck. As he pulled out to pass the truck, the truck driver turned left in front of him. The young man attempted to steer back into his lane but his vehicle struck an un-flagged piece of metal extending from the back of the truck. He died in the resulting crash.

Expert witnesses brought in by the Arnold Law Firm proved that the truck, owned and operated by a hauling firm, should never have been on the highway that morning. Specifically, the rear and side turn signals did not work and the rear-view mirror was in a poor state of adjustment at the time of the collision. As a result, the driver, who had failed to properly inspect the vehicle before setting out that morning, couldn’t see the young man’s vehicle as it attempted to pass.

The poor condition of the truck, its lack of maintenance and the manner in which it was operated were found to be substantial factors in causing the collision that killed the young man. The testimony also established that the man had been making a lawful pass at the lawful speed limit and acted reasonably when he attempted to avoid the collision.

The man’s 20-year-old widow was awarded $3,767,000.77, his parents were awarded $185,131 and the family was reimbursed $11,899 in funeral expenses. Though money is a poor substitute for a young man’s life, this verdict demonstrates that drivers who endanger the lives of others will be held accountable for their actions.