Uncover Car Accident Fault in Allegheny: Get Clarity Now!
By Ben Gobel on January 23, 2024
When you have been involved in a car accident, your insurance company will need to know who the at-fault driver is. Likewise, your car accident lawyer will need to know how and when the accident occurred and who caused it to help you file a personal injury lawsuit for your motor vehicle accident.
However, determining fault in a car accident in Allegheny County is no easy task. If you have been involved in a car crash and are unsure how to identify the person responsible for your car accident case, reach out to the attorneys at Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, P.C. for help. We can show you how is fault determined in a car accident.
The fault determination process for an insurance company
Fault assessment in auto accidents is done by determining the cause of the car accident and who could be responsible for it. For example, the accident report may specify that accident victims suffered minor injuries because another driver was texting while driving. In this case, the fault may lie with that driver.
Explore the injury services of Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, P.C. for car accident cases to get the answers you need.
Determining the at-fault driver in car accidents
When determining fault, personal injury attorneys will need to learn what factors caused the auto accident before they seek compensation. These factors include details found at the accident scene.
For example, if you were driving northbound and passing through a green light, but another car ran the red light and hit you, factors like the traffic light may impact your chance to recover damages.
Proving fault in car accident cases in Allegheny County
When your personal injury attorney is building your case, evidence is needed to prove fault. Evidence may include a police report, medical bills, and more.
You can learn more about Allegheny County’s fault determination process.
Role of the police report in determining fault
Your insurance coverage may provide financial recovery according to your policy because Pennsylvania is a no-fault state. However, some situations may require determining who caused your Allegheny County accident.
Identifying the at-fault driver is easier with a police report. This can be key to determining fault and getting the injured driver the help they need to recover.
Comparative negligence
Comparative negligence laws can have a huge impact on your claim.
For example, you claim that another car made an illegal left turn and hit you. However, the other driver may claim you were texting and driving. When it is time to determine fault, comparative negligence law may place some blame on both parties. If you accept any comparative fault, that means your claim will be reduced by your percentage of fault. That leaves you paying for some of your expenses.
Challenges in proving fault
Proving fault can be tough, even if it seems like an easy case. Below are just a few ways fault may be complicated:
- You were rear-ended because another vehicle was pushed into yours
- You were hurt in a hit-and-run
Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, P.C.’s experience handling car accident cases
When you have suffered severe damage because of a car accident, Pennsylvania law may require you to seek medical attention, identify the at-fault driver, and seek a fair settlement from your insurance company before you collect compensation. That can be tough when you have already suffered a serious accident.
Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, P.C. will help you get compensation for the economic and non-economic damages you have suffered. We have decades of experience in Pennsylvania laws, and we are ready to tackle your case. We offer a free consultation to potential clients seeking answers about fault determination.
Fault Determination FAQs
When you are hurt in a Pennsylvania car accident, getting compensation is vital. However, if you don’t take the correct steps, you may have difficulty determining fault.
Check out some of our frequently asked questions while you wait for your appointment.
How is fault determined in a car accident in PA?
The fault may be determined by the specifics of your accident. This may include gathering evidence that the other driver was distracted, drowsy, or even drunk. Evidence may include photos, videos, your medical records, and more.
How to determine fault in a collision?
When determining fault in a collision, you would first gather evidence at the scene to determine what caused the accident. For example, if there is a prior history of accidents at a particular intersection, there may be an issue with sign visibility. Once the cause is uncovered, you can then determine fault by identifying who is responsible for that cause.
Who pays for car damage in a no-fault state?
Car accident damage can be expensive, whether you have suffered soft tissue injuries or need something as complex as neck surgery. In a no-fault state like Pennsylvania, a certain amount of the damages are covered by your insurance company. However, if your insurer will not pay, or you are over your insurance limit, the at-fault driver may be liable for your damages.
Who is usually at fault in a car crash?
Often, car accidents happen because of driver error. That may be due to distracted, drowsy, or drunk driving. However, many different elements can cause a car accident, so reach out for help identifying yours.
Steps to take after a car accident in Allegheny County
First, check for injuries and seek medical attention. Certain injuries, such as cervical spine damage, mean that you should not be moved, so take extra care to avoid worsening any damage.
After this, report your accident to the proper authorities. That includes your insurance company and the police.
After doing all of that, it may be time to reach out to an attorney at Ogg, Murphy & Perkosky, P.C. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to provide you with the decades of experience you need on your side for the compensation you are due. When you are ready to speak with an attorney, reach out by calling or filling out our online contact form.