In the aftermath of a car crash, you could be entitled to compensation for medical bills or other damages incurred. However, this is generally only true if the person who caused the crash was negligent in doing so. In some cases, both yourself and the other driver may share liability for the accident occurring.
1. You Ran a Red Light
Let’s say that your vehicle was hit from the side by another vehicle while you were going through an intersection. The driver of the vehicle that collided with yours was on a cell phone at the time of the crash. He or she would likely be negligent for driving while distracted. However, let’s also say that you ran a red light or went through the intersection while the light was yellow. An attorney for the other driver may argue that you were partially negligent for not obeying the traffic control signal.
2. You Failed to Yield the Right of Way
In this example, let’s suppose that you were hit by a drunk driver while making a turn at a traffic light. Since the driver who hit you was impaired, he or she would be negligent in causing the accident to happen. However, if you were making a left turn in front of that vehicle, you would possibly be negligent for making that turn in front of the drunk driver. Therefore, each party could be liable for damages in the resulting wreck.
3. You Were Following Too Closely
In most cases, the driver of the vehicle that collides with another from behind is considered at fault for causing the accident. However, if the driver of the vehicle in front of yours is stopping erratically or otherwise operating his or her vehicle haphazardly, he or she may be partially at fault.
Ideally, you will stay about two to four car lengths behind any vehicle in front of yours. This provides some leeway in the event that another car stops suddenly because of an animal crossing or other object in the road. Keeping your distance can be especially helpful during times of heavy rain or snow.
If you are involved in a car accident, it is your duty to stop and render assistance. From there, you can speak with your car insurance company as to whether you were at fault for the crash. In the event that you are injured, don’t hesitate to consult with our car accident attorney in AZ to learn more about your rights.
