Who is to Blame for Single-Vehicle Crashes?

 Posted on September 30, 2023 in Car Accidents

Single-vehicle crashes cause many problems for drivers involved in them. Typically, when a single-car accident occurs, the driver is considered to be the at-fault party. However, this is not always the case. Even when there is only one vehicle involved in an accident, another driver or party could still be at fault. 

If you crash your car, do not automatically assume that you are to blame or that others may not have any fault. It is best to consult with a seasoned Chicago, IL, car accident lawyer to determine if you have a legal claim. Consider the following common causes of single-vehicle collisions.

Defective Vehicle (or Vehicle Parts) Design or Manufacturing

Vehicles should be reliable and operate in the manner for which they are intended. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, as manufacturing defects can and do occur. For example, a faulty braking system can cause a vehicle to be unable to stop, resulting in a wreck. A defective vehicle design can also result in a collision. 

If you can prove that a vehicle defect caused your single-car accident, the car or part manufacturer is the liable party. With the help of a Chicago, IL, car accident attorney, you can pursue compensation for your resulting injuries and damages. 

Other Drivers 

A driver of another vehicle could begin the chain of events that ultimately causes your car accident. For instance, another driver might move into your lane unexpectedly, causing your vehicle to hit a stationary object on the side of the road. In such a case, the other driver could be liable for the accident.

Poor Road Conditions 

Municipalities must ensure that their roads are kept in a reasonably safe condition at all times. Poor road conditions, such as potholes or lack of warning signs, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle, causing an accident. If something like this happened to you, you could file a claim against the municipality responsible for maintaining the road conditions in the area of your accident.

Wildlife or Other Animals

From time to time, wildlife, dogs, or even cattle can jump across the road or otherwise place themselves in the way. You may need to slam on your brakes or swerve quickly to avoid hitting them. Even if you do not hit them, you might wreck your car trying to avoid them. If someone was negligent and had their animals or livestock where they should not have been, they could be responsible for your injuries. In cases of accidents with wildlife, sometimes the municipality can be at fault for not taking more preventative measures to keep wildlife off the roadways.

Were You Involved in a Single-Car Accident? Contact a Chicago, IL Car Accident Lawyer from Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC 

Many different parties can be liable for a single-vehicle crash; it is not necessarily the fault of the driver of the crashed vehicle. An experienced Illinois car accident attorney can help you file a claim for damages against that person or party. Contact Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC online or by phone at 312-236-6324 today to set up a no-obligation case consultation.