The moment a car accident occurs can change your life. It is impossible to predict exactly how it could affect you, but you could find yourself dealing with property damage, medical bills, painful injuries and other adverse effects. It is not always easy to understand how to pick up the pieces and move forward, especially if you are unsure of what happened or who could be to blame for your accident.
If you are the victim of the reckless or negligent actions of another New Jersey driver, there may be ways for you to pursue compensation and damages for what you suffered. However, the first step in this process is determining if you have sufficient cause to do so and how to prove your claim. Determining fault is complex, and it may be helpful for you to learn about how you can seek rightful recompense, gather the appropriate evidence and fight for the recovery you need and deserve.
The factors that can help you prove fault
It is not always easy to determine who is at fault or what may be to blame for your accident. When it comes to establishing the cause of the crash and identifying which party bears financial responsibility for it, any of the following are common ways insurance companies determine who is to blame:
- One of the drivers at the scene of the accident admits to the action that resulted in the crash, such as running a stop sign or failing to see the other vehicle.
- The details in the police report, such as the position of the vehicles or other facts, clearly establish which driver is responsible for what happened.
- The insurance companies determine fault by reviewing evidence, and one provider may decide to offer the other driver a financial settlement.
- If the insurance companies do not agree, they may initiate the arbitration process in order to reach a resolution without going to trial.
- If no other methods are effective in resolving the matter, it may go to court, and a jury may determine which party is at fault for the crash.
The legal concept of fault can be difficult to establish, even if you believe there is already sufficient evidence to prove you are the victim of the reckless or negligent actions of another driver. You may benefit from seeking experienced guidance as you navigate the aftermath of a crash and seek the appropriate financial compensation you need for your medical needs and other damages you experienced.
