Can I Seek Compensation After a Single-Car Crash?

When two or more vehicles are involved in a crash, the at-fault party’s insurer is typically responsible for the damages. If you get hurt in a single-car crash, however, you may wonder if or how you can recover compensation. What legal options do injured victims have in this situation?

At PKSD, regardless of the type of car crash that caused you harm, our experienced Milwaukee traffic accident lawyers may be able to help. The first consultation is on us. You can find out if you have a case and get answers to your legal questions. There is no obligation to file a claim after this meeting, so there is no risk to you.

Call to arrange your FREE case review today. Ph: 414-333-3333

Can Injured Victims of Single-Car Crashes Recover Compensation?

Whether an injured victim of a single-car crash can get any compensation in this situation varies. The short answer to this question is maybe. It depends on the type of crash, how it happened and who was at fault.

Single-Car Crashes Are Often Caused by Driver Error

In 2019, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) revealed that Wisconsin single-vehicle crashes accounted for 54 percent of all traffic accidents in the state. Most single-car crashes happen because of driver error or negligence, such as:

• Distracted driving: Texting and other types of distracted behavior is a leading cause of single-car crashes.
• Driving impaired: Single-car DUI crashes are all too common and deadly, both for the impaired drivers and others.
• Drowsy driving: Drowsy drivers may risk falling asleep at the wheel and hitting a pedestrian or crashing into an object. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 697 deaths from drowsy driving crashes in 2019.
• Speeding: A speeding driver can quickly lose control of his or her vehicle, and crash or rollover and hit another object.

If a driver is involved in a single-vehicle crash and was deemed at fault because of negligence, there is likely no claim. However, you should discuss your specific situation with a licensed attorney as every case is unique.

Single-Car Crashes That May Be Out of Your Control

Some single-vehicle accidents are not caused by a driver’s own error or an act of negligence. Sometimes single-car crashes happen because of circumstances out of your control, such as:

• A deer or other animal darting suddenly into the path of your vehicle
• Failed brakes or other mechanical issues caused by a defective part or faulty repair
• Swerving to avoid a vehicle that moves unexpectedly into your lane and then takes off after you crash
• Hitting a large pothole or other road hazard on a poorly maintained road
• Crashing your car due to a lack of signage warning you about road work or a sudden curve or merge
• A pedestrian suddenly walking in front of your vehicle where there is no designated crossing area

Regardless of unexpected dangers that can happen on the road, drivers owe a duty of care to take precautions. Remaining alert and watchful for potential hazards may help to prevent a crash. Drivers who remain alert and follow traffic safety laws have more time to respond if something happens.

What Are Some Valid Single-Car Crash Claims?

While single-vehicle crashes are often challenging, there are some claims that may be valid, such as against:

Manufacturers

If investigators determine that a defective part contributed to the cause of your crash, you may have a valid claim against the car manufacturer for the damages.

Government Agencies

If your single-vehicle crash was the direct result of a pothole or other dangerous hazard, you may have a claim against the government entity responsible for maintaining the road. Claims against government agencies in Wisconsin are difficult and you have only a short window to file notice. Your best bet in this situation is to take photos of the crash scene, including the road hazard, and contact a qualified attorney immediately for legal help.

Your Insurance Policy

A single-vehicle crash may sometimes be caused by another’s negligence. For example, if you tried to get out of the way of another driver who suddenly swerved into the path of your vehicle. If you can prove someone else caused your crash, you may have a claim through your own policy.

Contact Our Trusted Law Firm to Discuss Your Legal Options

PKSD has a long and proven track record for successfully recovering compensation for our clients. We treat each client like a person, not a number. Our goal is to protect your interests and fight for the maximum amount of compensation available.

You can trust our team of legal professionals to handle your claim as if it were our own. Read what others have said about our services and then take advantage of our free case review. There is no obligation to hire our firm, even if we determine you have a valid case. If we represent you, there is nothing to pay up front or throughout the legal process. We only get paid when your case concludes – and only if we win.

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