Negligence is the most prevalent cause of single-vehicle accidents. Whether it’s oversight of the driver, maintenance company or manufacturer, determining who is liable for the incident can be challenging. 

A single-car accident is defined as a crash involving just one vehicle. However, this does not mean that only one party is liable. So, if you have been involved in a single-car accident and sustained physical or vehicular damage, you should immediately consult a car accident attorney to keep your rights upheld and protected.

Common Causes of Single-Car Accidents

The most common cause of a single-vehicle accident is driver negligence. Drivers are prone to being distracted by their mobile devices – texting, reading emails, checking social media, taking calls, etc. Failing to keep a proper lookout on the road is a common cause of collisions nowadays. Other causes include:

• Dangerous weather conditions
• High-risk road conditions
• Mechanical malfunction
• Passenger distraction
• Driving while drowsy
• Driving under the influence

When Is the Driver Not Responsible?

Determining fault in single-vehicle accidents is more tricky than in incidents involving two or more automobiles. It is not always the driver’s fault, and a knowledgeable auto accident attorney can help you determine the reason for the accident.

Depending on the unique circumstances of the collision, you may be able to hold someone else liable for your injuries, damage to your vehicle, lost income and other expenses. Here are some reasons you may be able to get compensated for your single-car accident.

Slick Road Conditions

Not all slick road conditions are caused by nature. If another person or entity caused a spill on the road and didn’t clean it up before you passed over it, you may have a liability case in your hands. For example, if a truck was hauling oil that spilled and you lost control and crashed after traveling over it, you may be able to sue the trucking company for your damages.

Faulty Road Maintenance

The government is responsible for maintaining safe roads. You may be able to hold your city, county, or state government accountable for problems like potholes, damaged guardrails, malfunctioning electric signals, poor road design, and other potential causes of single-car accidents. However, poor road maintenance may not be easy to determine. You need the help of an experienced attorney to pursue this option.

Manufacturing Defects

It’s possible that a car defect can cause an accident. If the car manufacturer failed to produce a reasonably safe product or failed to alert you in a recall, it may have been negligent. If negligence is proven, you can receive compensation for injuries and damages.

Flying Objects

Other drivers are responsible for securing their loads before driving on the highway. If another driver’s load flies out of the vehicle and causes injury to you or damage to your car, you have grounds for a liability case. Another example is when a tire suddenly breaks on a tractor trailer and flies out onto the highway or interstate. You may be able to hold the trucking company responsible for the damage it caused.

Passenger Distraction

There are cases when events from within the car itself cause the accident. For example, drivers look away from the road to direct their attention to the passengers, a negligent action that may result in a collision. This places the liability on the driver for allowing themselves to be distracted. Another common occurrence is passengers intentionally distracting the driver. However, you should be cautious about alleging that your passenger diverted your attention deliberately because most car insurance policies exclude coverage for accidents caused by intentional acts.

Proving Liability in a Single-Car Accident With a Car Accident Attorney

Many variables are involved in single-car accident cases, making it extremely difficult for you to prove someone else’s liability. But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look into the matter. Sometimes, an accident that appears to be your fault initially can be caused by unexpected reasons. The best person to investigate the details of your situation is a knowledgeable auto accident attorney. 

You shouldn’t have to pay for your vehicle damage or medical expenses when someone else is to blame. When you are injured due to the negligence of another party, you may have a right to be compensated for the damages you’ve suffered. Call the Law Offices of David Kohm today to consult with a car accident attorney regarding your situation. We provide a free consultation at any of our locations:

• Arlington (817) 522-4451
• Dallas (972) 362-6848
• Fort Worth (817) 764-1375
• Plano (972) 354-4602
• Cedar Hill (972) 338-9427
• McKinney (469) 522-3688
• Lewisville (972) 354-4605
• Frisco (972) 725-7681
• Grapevine (817) 835-8677
• Irving (972) 354-4610
• Keller (817) 204-0904
• Garland (214) 572-2251
• Denton (940) 222-4060
• Addison (972) 564-8108

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