Who is Liable After a Car Accident? The Other Driver May Not Be the Only Person Responsible
Following a car accident, the first person victims seek compensation from is the other negligent driver. However, a skilled personal injury lawyer understands that the other negligent driver may not be the only means by which victims can recover money following a personal injury accident.
For instance, if an individual was using the vehicle for work purposes, the employer may also be liable for the accident. One doesn’t necessarily have to be a commercial driver in order to use this protection or avenue. Of course, truck drivers and other commercial drivers most commonly use this provision to protect themselves and seek compensation for injuries following an accident while on the job. Yet, for baby sitters, office workers, or other individuals who may be required to do errands or drive for their employers, employee liability is something all car accident victims should consider. This is particularly important if you were using a company car of vehicle. For instance, if a defect in the vehicle contributed to your accident, your employer could be held liable for not maintaining proper equipment.
Individuals who are injured in a car accident while working should always speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. Additionally, if an individual was “on the job” and is negligent for your accident, this person’s employers could also be sued in a personal injury claim as well.
The city or government can sometimes also be sued in a personal injury claim, especially if road conditions or hazards contributed to the accident. Improper signals or signage can also result in injuries and accidents. Of course, suing the government is a complicated process, and a skilled personal injury attorney should always be consulted to ensure that all proper paperwork is filed and that the statute of limitations does not expire.
Government failure to maintain infrastructure has been in the news lately with the recent Amtrak accident in Philadelphia. For instance, according to CNN, just one day after the deadly accident, the House cut funding for Amtrak. The train’s derailment has once again shifted focus on how the U.S. government spends money towards ensuring proper infrastructure.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can review all relevant facts of your case to determine whether the government may be liable. Given the current concerns on infrastructure, personal injury lawsuits serve not only to protect victims of poorly-maintained roadways and signals, but also serve to raise public awareness and make roads safer for everyone.
Finally, car manufacturers may also be held liable in certain cases. Improperly functioning airbags, poorly functioning equipment, and other problems could lead to accidents and injuries. Your personal injury lawyer can review all recalls and ensure that either your car or the other driver’s car wasn’t subject to defects.
Personal injury law can, at times, be complex. Fortunately, law firms like the Law Office of Johnson & Lundgreen in Boise and Meridian, Idaho work diligently and leave no stone unturned when it comes to helping families and victims receive the compensation they deserve.
