When a motor vehicle accident occurs, everyone’s first priority is to make sure that the injured are attended to and the accident debris is safely removed from the scene. Once the ambulances and tow trucks have pulled away, the next issue at hand in is to determine fault.
Sometimes the cause of an accident is perfectly clear, with little or no room for doubt when it comes to determining liability. For instance, when a driver crosses over into the oncoming lanes of traffic, resulting in a head-on collision, that driver would almost always be considered the at-fault driver. His or her insurance company would be fully liable for the injuries and property damage incurred as a result of the accident.
However, as clear-cut as this example appears, there may be mitigating circumstances that would need to be considered when it comes to determining liability. Perhaps the road was under construction and the signs were placed inaccurately as to direct traffic incorrectly. Maybe the driver lost control of his vehicle’s steering due to an automotive design flaw or faulty manufacturing. Any type of extenuating circumstances may change the determination of liability entirely or divide the responsibility between parties.
Comparative Fault Rules for Drivers
Comparative fault rules are rules that apply when multiple parties share blame for an accident. The rules vary from state to state, but In Illinois, you can be awarded compensation from anyone involved in the accident who is determined to be more at fault than you are. If two parties are each found to be equally at fault, then neither is allowed to collect from the other.
Furthermore, as explained above, there may be other parties involved when it comes to liability, The cause of the accident will need to be fully investigated and if it is determined that a road construction company, an automotive manufacturer, or a local municipality had a hand in causing the accident, there is a good chance they will be held liable for damages.
Experienced Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
If there is a reasonable suspicion that something other than driver error has contributed to any vehicular accident, you can be certain that the claims adjusters and other legal representatives of large insurance companies will not help you attain the compensation you are entitled to. They may even try to reduce the amount they pay out under the policies they are responsible for.
When you or someone you love is involved in a car accident, it is important to understand your rights. Whether or not you feel you were at fault, consider speaking with an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer before agreeing to any type of settlement. At Shea Law Group, we have handled thousands of car accident cases, and we know how difficult it can be to achieve a fair settlement.
Never risk your financial future or the financial future of your family. Contact us at (877)-365-0040 for your free no obligation consultation today, and let us help you win the compensation you are entitled to.
