Determining Liability When a Third Party Causes a Car Accident

Car accident personal injury cases generally have two or more drivers who are directly involved in the crash. Based on this, in certain cases, there may be a third party that is liable for the auto accident. When third parties are involved, it can significantly complicate the settlement process. A skilled car accident attorney in Alabama can help identify the right parties to sue so that you can successfully obtain the compensation you are entitled to.

What Types of Third-Party Entities may be Liable for Car Accidents?

Third-party auto accidents are those in which the liability is partly or entirely placed on someone besides the motorists involved in the crash. There can be several different types of companies and/or individuals in this type of claim. This includes:

• Passengers: the passenger may cause an accident by grabbing the steering wheel, distracting the driver, or putting the driver at risk
• Vehicle owner: The vehicle owner may be separate from the person driving the vehicle in some cases. The owner can be held liable if they allowed an impaired, unsafe, or unlicensed driver to take control of the vehicle. They may be liable if they failed to secure the vehicle as well.
• Component or vehicle manufacturers: Vehicles and their components are subject to design and manufacturing errors. The injured party may have a valid claim against the manufacturer/designer of the vehicle or a specific component if the accident is caused due to a malfunction.
• Auto repair professionals: Repairs using wrong components or poorly done repairs may place you at an increased risk of an accident. Anyone that sustains injuries during such an accident can seek compensation from the repair shop if an accident occurs.
• Alcoholic beverage providers: Impaired drivers are responsible for the accidents they cause. But an entity that served alcohol irresponsibly could potentially be held partially liable for the injuries as well.

Investigating 3^rd Party Liability in Alabama Car Accidents

It can be complicated to determine liability in a third-party accident. It is easier for parties to start pointing fingers at each other when you bring multiple parties to a case. All of them will attempt at absolving themselves of the blame. You cannot trust any information you get from the insurers of the other party because of this.

You need to understand that the goal of the insurer is not to help you get the compensation you deserve but to limit their own liability. This is why you should consider working with an attorney who has the proven ability to fight for the compensation you deserve following a car accident.

You should look for a lawyer with substantial experience in car accidents similar to your own. It is a big task to go after multiple parties and hold them accountable. You require a lawyer that is aggressive enough to get you what you deserve.

Establishing Negligence or Fault of a Third Party

Things are more straightforward in a car accident caused by the other driver’s fault. However, it is a whole different story when you need to prove that the parts manufacturer or the repair professional caused or contributed to the accident. Negligence is a vital component of obtaining compensation. And you need to relate the negligence as a cause of the accident.

Individuals are deemed to be negligent when they fail to act in a reasonable manner and their actions cause injury and damage. The actions and inactions of an individual or entity may be seen as negligent if they fail to comply with a policy, law, or regulation.

Negligent parties are liable for the damages caused by their negligence unless they have a valid defense. Having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can help you prove fault and negligence on part of the third party.

Seeking Compensation from a Third Party for Your Injuries

The compensation obtained following an accident may differ depending on the circumstances of the crash. Severe injuries and major financial losses will warrant higher compensation. This also means that the insurance company of the defendant will fight harder to avoid a fair settlement.

With help from a reputable personal injury lawyer, you may be able to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages and future loss of income
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Punitive damages in exceptional cases

Consult with a Seasoned Car Accident Attorney in Alabama Today

The personal injury attorneys at Mann & Potter have a single goal of helping accident victims obtain the full and fair compensation they deserve. You should not delay in reaching out to our legal team for advice about your auto accident.

We can help you identify all at-fault parties for the crash in order to maximize your compensation. To set up your free and confidential consultation with us, call us at 205-879-9661 or message us online.