Automotive

7 Effective Tips For Determining Car Accident Fault

Have you been in an automobile accident where the issue of liability is not clear-cut? There are more than six million car crashes in the United States each year.

Although some accidents are the fault of one party, sometimes deciding who is at fault means you must look at other factors. How can you have a better feel for who is at fault and if you have a reasonable claim?

Read on to learn seven effective tips for determining car accident fault!

1. Read the Police Report

When you are trying to learn about who is at fault after a crash, you should start by reading the police report. Many jurisdictions have laws that require a police officer to prepare a crash or police report after an accident.

This report often includes important information like witness names and contact information, and a narrative prepared by the reporting police officer.

2. Review Citations

Were there any citations given to any party after the accident? Receiving a citation does not necessarily mean that party is 100-percent at fault. It does strengthen the case that another party is responsible for your injuries or other damages.

Make copies of each citation that was issued in the case, and note the citation number. This will help you for reference later in the process.

3. Visit the Scene

You will have a better appreciation for the sequence of events leading up to an accident by visiting the scene where it happened. Be sure to go out to the scene at around the same as when the accident took place.

Also, be sure that there are similar weather and lighting conditions as there were during your crash. Bring a camera so that you can document some of the images you see.

4. Research Law in Your State

Even if you aren’t an attorney, it is helpful to look over the law in your state about negligence. This can help you to have a better idea about the rules and regulations in place during your accident.

You may also discover some often-overlooked laws that can be helpful to your case.

5. Look Over Any Evidence

Review any evidence collected after your accident. This includes items like pictures, beverage cans, identification, and any other items placed in evidence.

The evidence that is collected may be used against you or another driver during a criminal or civil trial.

6. Speak to Witnesses

Speaking with eyewitnesses to the accident is a great way to clarify the issues. You can learn a lot about the perceptions of others by talking with them about what they witnessed or didn’t see.

7. Consult With Attorneys

Speaking with attorneys like the ones at Sweetlaw.com. This can give you the best idea about whether you have a case or not. Speak openly and honestly with a prospective lawyer.

Remember that what you say to your attorney is usually protected from discovery by others through the attorney-client privilege.

How to Determine Car Accident Fault

Determining car accident fault is a crucial part of understanding if you have a strong case. Reaching a sound conclusion on this issue is a combination of reviewing the facts, applying the law, and speaking with an attorney.

Are you interested in learning more about how to present your case most effectively? Check out our blog section for posts that provide effective tips for presenting a winning lawsuit!

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