How to Prove Fault and Liability for Car Accidents

Although most car crashes are accidental, it is crucial to determine the at-fault party. This is the person that was responsible for the accident.

They are responsible for the costs incurred by the other party, including medical bills and repair costs. If you have just been in a car accident, here are a few ways to prove fault.

1. Don’t Admit fault

If you have just been in an accident, you probably have hundreds of thoughts running through your mind. It is easy to say something mean. However, you must remain calm and think of your words before saying them. Do not apologize or admit fault for the accident.

Even if you feel that you may have somehow contributed to the accident, it is unnecessary to mention it. The leading cause may be something you don’t know about yet.

Admitting fault means you are responsible for the accident. It could make it difficult for the actual cause to be detected.

2. Get a Police Report

Having a police report can be very important when you need to prove fault in an accident. It offers an in-depth understanding of all the factors leading to the accident. Since the police are a neutral party, their report is credible.

Before taking any legal action regarding the car accident, obtain your copy of a police report. It will include the violations of the other driver, if any, and the officers’ thoughts and views on the cause of the accident.

If police officers can’t show up at the scene of the accident, report to the closest police station as soon as you can. The officers will write down your account of the story and ask witnesses for their own. Failure to have a police report reduces your chances of getting compensation significantly.

3. Gather Evidence

Gather as much evidence after the accident as you can. Photos and videos may not be much, but they can help paint a picture of the crime scene.

Take them from different angles and get statements from witnesses. Get their contact information as you may need them later. If you find any critical piece of evidence, write it down while your memory is still fresh. After some time, you may not remember things clearly.

4. Check the Local Traffic Laws

All states have unique traffic laws. They have different requirements regarding speed limits, traffic violations, and the right of way.

Doing some research on the local traffic laws may help you determine who was really at fault. Whether it was an illegal turn or failure to give right of way, the law is clear, and an attorney may advise you accordingly.

5. Document the Driving Conditions at the Time of the Accident

Take note of any stop signs, school zones, and speed limits that may not have been present at the time of the accident. If you got into an accident with a car that was turning but didn’t have its turn signal on, you need to take note of this fact.

Proving that the other driver didn’t have their turn signal on is enough to show that they were at fault.

6. Get Legal Advice

Seeking legal advice is a priority if you have just been in a car accident. Lalande personal injury lawyers will go through the details of your case and explain how liability may affect you.

They will communicate with the liable insurance provider on your behalf and ensure that you get maximum compensation.

Proving liability after a car accident is a priority if you hope to get compensation. Simple tips include seeking legal advice, documenting the driving conditions at the time of the accident, and collecting evidence.