If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Chester County, the key to receiving full financial compensation is proving that the other driver was at fault. Without evidence to support your claim, it can be difficult—if not impossible—to recover damages for your injuries, medical expenses, and other losses.
The Role of Negligence in a Car Accident
Car accident fault is determined by negligence. You must show that the other driver acted in a way that an ordinary, reasonable driver would not have under the same circumstances. For example:
- Rear-End Collisions: There is typically a presumption that the rear driver was at fault.
- Other Types of Accidents: You must demonstrate that the other driver’s actions—speeding, running a red light, distracted driving, etc.—directly caused your accident.
In legal terms, the standard used in car accident cases is a preponderance of the evidence. This means that the facts you present must show it is “more likely than not” that the other driver caused the crash. Simply stating what happened is not enough; you must have evidence to prove it.
Steps You Can Take to Prove Fault
After a car accident, you may hear advice about investigating the scene and collecting evidence. While gathering evidence and witness information can help, it is often difficult to do so when you are injured. Practical steps include:
- Taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Collecting contact information for witnesses who saw the crash.
- Obtaining a copy of the police report.
Even these basic steps can help establish fault, but it is not something you have to handle alone.
Why You Need a Chester County Car Accident Lawyer
Evidence in car accident cases is time-sensitive. Once the accident scene is cleared, it becomes much harder to prove fault. Witnesses may be difficult to locate, and physical evidence may disappear.
Hiring a car accident attorney early ensures that:
- All available evidence is collected promptly.
- Witnesses are interviewed while memories are fresh.
- Your claim is handled professionally, allowing you to focus on recovery.
An experienced attorney can navigate negotiations with insurance companies, gather proof, and build a strong case to demonstrate negligence. Delaying legal representation can make it more difficult to secure full compensation.
Contact a Chester County Car Accident Lawyer at Samuel Anyan Attorney At Law
A Chester County car accident lawyer at Samuel Anyan Attorney At Law can investigate your crash and handle the legal process for you. Call 833-372-6946 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients in Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Dauphin County, Berks County, Lehigh County, and Northampton County.