Determining liability after a car accident can be difficult, depending on the surrounding facts. The cause of some accidents is unclear, and it can be challenging to tell who hit who in a car accident. An attorney can sift through the available evidence to bring you closer to recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact a Marion car accident lawyer to learn more about your options and how a legal team can get you closer to full and fair compensation after a car accident.
Key Pieces of Evidence
Key pieces of evidence present in many car accident cases can point to liability. Here are some examples of pertinent evidence that can clarify who hit whom in a car accident:
Police Report
Getting a copy of the police report is important. The police report is the first place where a narrative of how the accident happened. The officer will likely complete a narrative section detailing their impression of the car accident.
Witness Statements
Eyewitness testimony can be beneficial to your case. Witnesses may have seen the accident from varying angles, which can give the parties more insight into how the accident happened. Working with an attorney can lead to finding witnesses and uncovering what they know about the crash.
Vehicle Damage
Evidence of vehicle damage can indicate who hit who in a car accident. For example, in a rear-end accident, the back driver usually hits the front driver. If the front driver shows that their vehicle’s back end is damaged, you can reasonably assume the accident struck them.
Traffic Laws
Knowing the relevant traffic laws clarifies who has the right of way and identifies whether drivers disregarded rules. Carefully assess the accident's circumstances to determine if any driver broke the law, which can significantly impact liability and potential compensation.
Skid Marks and Debris
The presence and patterns of skid marks or debris on the road can indicate the direction and speed of the vehicles before the collision. Analyzing these can help reconstruct the accident’s sequence.
Surveillance or Dash Cam Footage
Video evidence, including dash cam footage, can be very helpful in proving who hit who in a car accident. Video evidence can provide a clear account of the events leading up to the accident, which can be analyzed to help reconstruct the accident’s sequence.
Photographic Evidence
Pictures can help explain who hit who in a car accident. Share pictures of your vehicle damage and injuries with your attorney to give them more insight into the cause of the accident.
Statements from Drivers
The statements from the drivers can provide helpful information about how the accident happened. Each driver’s account can offer insights into the accident. Be aware that statements may vary, and each driver may have a biased perspective.
Insurance Investigations
Insurance companies investigate accidents to determine liability. While an insurance company might have an agenda, its investigation can offer valuable insight into the cause of the accident. Insurance companies will analyze all collected evidence. The company’s determination of fault can influence claims and settlements.
Determining who hit whom in a car accident can be complex. Determining fault often requires a combination of evidence and analysis. If you are involved in an accident, you must gather as much evidence as possible and consider consulting with a legal professional to navigate the claims process effectively.
How Can a Car Accident Attorney Help Me?
The assistance of a car accident attorney can be invaluable in determining liability after a traffic accident. Here are some of the most helpful ways a car accident attorney can support you:
Settlement Negotiations
Settlement negotiations can be tough for individuals. Insurance companies want to maintain their profit margins, even if that means you get a lowball settlement offer. Insurance companies might take advantage of individuals the counsel does not represent. Hiring an attorney can help protect you from underhanded practices insurance companies use.
Litigation
If you cannot settle your case during the negotiations phase, then your injury lawyer might file a lawsuit in court on your behalf. Handling a case in court can be complex and daunting. An attorney working on your behalf can protect your rights throughout the process.
Gathering Evidence
An attorney can gather evidence after a car accident. Some evidence can help determine who hits who after a car accident, but it can be hard for individuals to collect. An attorney can help you access evidence like expert witness testimony or accident reconstructionist data that can help prove your case.
Build a Strong Case
Your attorney will build your case after a car accident. An experienced attorney knows what it takes to build a strong compensation case. Working with a personal injury lawyer can mean better access to financial recovery.
Offering Legal Guidance
You will have many questions about your car accident claim. An attorney can answer your most pressing questions after a car crash. Relying on an attorney’s wisdom can give you peace of mind that you are making the best possible decision.
Understanding Long-Term Implications
An attorney can clarify the long-term impacts of your injuries and guide you on how to account for future medical expenses and potential loss of income in your claim, ensuring you seek the full compensation necessary for your recovery and financial stability.
Filing Claims and Paperwork
Car accident cases include a lot of paperwork, which can quickly become overwhelming. An attorney can manage all the necessary paperwork and filings, ensuring that deadlines are met and claims and forms are completed accurately.
An attorney working on your behalf can make all the difference as you pursue financial compensation after a car accident. Your attorney will identify who is responsible for the crash and hold them accountable.
Contact A Skilled Car Accident Attorney Today
Do not hesitate. Contact a personal injury attorney today to protect your legal rights after an accident. There is no need to pursue compensation alone. Call a qualified lawyer today to begin financial recovery after a car accident. Taking this step can make all the difference in ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
Adam B. Lawler
Attorney at Law / Partner
Adam Lawler is the founder of Lawler Brown. Adam is a 2004 graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law. Adam worked for a local firm until founding the Lawler Brown in 2009. Adam’s practice areas focus in Personal Injury, Business, Real Estate, Probate/Trust/Estate Administration and general litigation.
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