When You Are Partially At Fault For An Auto Accident

Fault is an important factor when it comes to auto accidents and getting injured. If you have been in an auto accident and you are injured, the extent of your injuries will impact any financial compensation you receive. The accident report will establish who is at fault for the accident, assigning fault to anyone that may have been a factor in causing the accident. Even if you are found partially at fault, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit if you are found less than 50% at fault for the accident. Review the accident report and look at the details to see if everything is accurate.

Your Compensation Will Be Lowered

All of your losses will be added together to determine your compensation if you win a personal injury lawsuit. Losses include everything you can measure, such as medical bills and wages you have lost. Losses are also pain, suffering and your inability to work in the future. When you are found partially at fault for an accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage you are at fault. This means that if you are awarded $200,000 but you are 40% at fault, you will receive $120,000 in financial compensation.

Review the Accident Report Carefully

Establishing fault can be complicated after an accident. There may be aspects of the accident that you are aware of that were not noted in the report. If you feel that there are mistakes assigning more fault to you than you are responsible for, talk to the reporting officer about your findings. You may be able to clear up some of the mistakes by showing the proof you have and discussing what happened with the person who wrote the report. If your percentage of fault decreases, you will end up with more money in the end.

When Your Injuries are Severe

If you are seriously injured in an accident where you share some fault, it is still important to your financial future to move forward with your case. Get all the medical treatment that is suggested and make sure that your care has been well documented. Serious injuries may prevent you from gainful employment for years to come and you will need financial support.

As long as you are less than 50% at fault for an accident that causes you injuries, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. Meet with an auto accident attorney to discuss the merits of your case in an initial consultation.