Who Is at Fault for a Single-Vehicle Accident?

After any car accident, it’s usually clear who the at-fault driver is. However, not all crashes involve multiple drivers. Single-vehicle accidents, which only involve one car, are more common than you think. In 2018, 53% of motor vehicle crash deaths were from single-vehicle incidents.

When you’re in a single-vehicle accident, you may automatically assume you were at fault. But that may not always be the case. Several factors may make another party liable for your single-vehicle accident. For help determining whether someone else might be liable for damages from this type of accident, you may want to consider hiring a car accident attorney.

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What Are Single-Vehicle Accidents?

A single-vehicle accident is any motor vehicle incident that causes damage to one car. Even if another driver contributes to the accident, but their vehicle isn’t damaged, the crash is still considered a single-vehicle accident. For example, this type of collision could be when another driver pulls out in front of you suddenly, and you drive off the road to avoid a collision and hit a tree.

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When Are Drivers at Fault for Single-Vehicle Accidents?

A driver is responsible for a single-car crash when their actions caused the accident. So, if the roads are icy and you’re driving too fast, you’re most likely liable for the collision. Additionally, if you’re excessively speeding when your crash occurs, you also may be held responsible. If a court or insurance company does find you liable, you may face several outcomes, such as large medical or vehicle repair bills, fines for traffic violations, or criminal charges.

When Are Drivers Not Liable for One-Car Accidents?

There are numerous reasons why you might not be liable for a single-car accident. Some examples are:

Vehicle Defects

There are times when a car part is defective and the company recalls it. Unfortunately, in most cases, these recalls are not put in place until a driver is in an accident and reports the issue. If a vehicle defect caused your accident, you should file a product liability lawsuit to recover damages you suffered because of the manufacturer’s negligence.

Poorly Maintained Roads

Your accident may have been caused by a large pothole or poorly iced roads during a snowstorm. If this is the case, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the city, county, or another government agency responsible for maintaining roads.

Accidents Caused by Other Drivers

There are times when another driver causes a single-vehicle accident. For instance, if a cyclist turns into your lane without looking or swerves into the intersection, your first instinct is probably to veer to avoid hitting the rider. But this means you’ll most likely hit something else, such as a guard rail or a tree. If you didn’t hit the cyclist, then you may be able to hold them liable.

Drunk Driving and Single-Vehicle Accidents

Intoxicated people hit things when they drive. If a court finds you guilty of driving under the influence, you may have to pay restitution to repair any damage that resulted from the accident. Whether your insurance company will compensate you for your injuries will depend on your plan and your attorney’s ability to negotiate with an adjuster.

Auto Accident Attorney
Auto Accident Attorney

When Are Drivers Not Liable for One-Car Accidents?

There are numerous reasons why you might not be liable for a single-car accident. Some examples are:

Vehicle Defects

There are times when a car part is defective and the company recalls it. Unfortunately, in most cases, these recalls are not put in place until a driver is in an accident and reports the issue. If a vehicle defect caused your accident, you should file a product liability lawsuit to recover damages you suffered because of the manufacturer’s negligence.

Poorly Maintained Roads

Your accident may have been caused by a large pothole or poorly iced roads during a snowstorm. If this is the case, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the city, county, or another government agency responsible for maintaining roads.

Accidents Caused by Other Drivers

There are times when another driver causes a single-vehicle accident. For instance, if a cyclist turns into your lane without looking or swerves into the intersection, your first instinct is probably to veer to avoid hitting the rider. But this means you’ll most likely hit something else, such as a guard rail or a tree. If you didn’t hit the cyclist, then you may be able to hold them liable.

Drunk Driving and Single-Vehicle Accidents

Intoxicated people hit things when they drive. If a court finds you guilty of driving under the influence, you may have to pay restitution to repair any damage that resulted from the accident. Whether your insurance company will compensate you for your injuries will depend on your plan and your attorney’s ability to negotiate with an adjuster.

Contact a Trusted Car Accident Attorney at The Barnes Firm

If you’ve been involved in a single-vehicle accident, you need a trusted attorney on your side. There is a possibility you were not entirely at fault for the accident. An expert personal injury attorney at The Barnes Firm will launch a full investigation into your case and the circumstances leading up to the crash. We’re dedicated to providing you with the soundest case possible and will work for you to obtain the compensation you deserve.

With over 100 years of combined experience, our team of legal professionals can handle your case and are available 24/7 to review your accident and answer all your legal questions. Call our office today or complete a contact form to schedule your free consultation.

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