Close Menu
Home > Blog > Car And Motorcycle Accidents > Single-Car Crashes – Not Always The Driver’s Fault

Single-Car Crashes – Not Always The Driver’s Fault

Determining-the-Cause-of-a-Single-Car-Crash.jpg

There was a grisly scene on Florida’s Turnpike in nearby Lauderhill at 5:00 a.m. on January 14th. Emergency crews responded to a crash report and had to remove the roof of the vehicle to free the driver trapped inside. The driver was then taken by helicopter to Broward Health Medical Center and reports indicated the unidentified driver was “seriously hurt.”

Authorities did not yet report a suspected cause of the single-car crash but in these situations, it is all too easy to assume that the driver was somehow at fault as no other vehicles were involved. However, in many single-car crashes, another party is to blame and it requires some investigation to determine liability for the crash.

Outside Causes of Single-Vehicle Accidents

Whether someone crashes a car, truck, motorcycle, or even a bicycle, determining the cause of the single-vehicle accident can be more complicated than you may believe. The following are some outside factors that may cause someone to crash:

  • Road hazards – If a driver suddenly hits a large pothole or another hazard in the road, it can cause them to lose control of their vehicle and crash. This is a particular risk for lighter vehicles such as motorcycles or bicycles. Similarly, if a road was designed poorly, had an improper speed limit for certain turns, or did not have the necessary warnings signs for potential risks, a driver can crash if they are unknowingly going to fast or are unaware of hazards.
  • Vehicle malfunctions – If the brakes, tires, or other critical vehicle parts suddenly malfunction, a driver can also lose control. Such malfunctions often occur because a manufacturer sold a defective vehicle part in the first place.
  • Other drivers – Just because another driver does not crash does not mean that they were not involved in causing the accident. Drivers can run others off the road or cause another driver to suddenly swerve and thereby lose control. In many cases, the driver who acted negligently may not even realize they caused a crash and may simply keep driving, which often means they will not be identified.

The major issue after a single-car crash is how an injured accident victim will obtain financial recovery for their medical bills and other losses. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your best options based on what happened, which may include:

  • A claim with your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance
  • A claim with your uninsured motorist insurance
  • Filing a legal claim against the city or state agency responsible that neglected roadway maintenance
  • Filing a products liability claim against a negligent manufacturer that sold a defective vehicle part

Find Out How a Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorney Can Help You

While single-car accident cases can be complex, it is possible for injured drivers to receive compensation for their injuries and losses. At Meldon Law, we handle all types of car accident cases and can advise you of your rights and legal options. Please call 800-373-8000 or contact us online to set up a free consultation with a Ft. Lauderdale car accident attorney today.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn