Even though road accidents are some of the unfortunate tragedies we may encounter in life, identifying the liable parties in an accident is quite challenging, even though it forms part of the key steps when seeking compensation.
Furthermore, the process becomes more complex and tedious when we need to identify and hold a third party accountable for the damages caused. Hence the need to seek legal assistance. For instance, a car accident lawyer can guide you and ensure you get justice.
Below are different categories of third parties that can be liable for a car accident.
Other Drivers
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Usually, car accidents are caused by different factors; nevertheless, for a multi-car accident that involves your car and other cars on the road, other drivers may be liable for any damage caused. For instance, in a situation where your car was the last knocked from that chain-reaction crash, the hitting probably came from the nearest car behind you. You can confidently complain to the state traffic police department to prove their accountability.
More importantly, interstates are more prone areas for multi-car accidents due to relaxed speed limit governance. Hence is always advisable to be vigilant and keen whenever driving around those areas.
Auto Repair Shops
More often than not, most car accidents are attributed to the negligence and failure of the driver to maintain the traffic laws. However, mechanical failures within the vehicle have sometimes contributed to accidents. This way, auto repair shops have been blamed for either negligence or recklessness in causing the accident, thus making the auto repair shops a third party liable for the damages. Moreover, it is their sole responsibility to detect and correct any malfunctions within the car. For example, brake failure and faulty tires are among the areas you would expect your auto repair shop to check before you receive your car back.
Product Manufacturers
Whenever you purchase any car part or spare parts, such as brake pads and tires, from a manufacturer and it fails, leading to an accident, the manufacturer is equally responsible and liable for any compensation you seek. Also, malfunctioning car parts may include others in the supply to be potentially liable for supplying defective car body parts. However, if you knew about brakes’ faultiness, the parties mentioned above are not liable.
Government Roads and Traffic Departments
Some of the accidents witnessed are caused by bad roads full of potholes and the negligence of government traffic officials. While it is our primary role to observe traffic rules, sometimes it becomes the mandate of the government to provide good roads, and at the same time, have its traffic personnel put order on the roads.
Conclusion
While all types of accidents are unfortunate, identifying the real cause of the accident is crucial part for anyone when seeking justice. Getting to know and report a third party liable for your car accident may require you to get assistance from a car accident attorney. The attorney will largely help in the legal part of the petition to certify that your case deserves compensation from the liable third party.
