1-800-964-0361
When it comes to car accidents, proving responsibility is often vital. Even in cases where it should be clear who is to blame, it is still important to back your claim up by as many facts as possible to ensure maximum compensation from your insurance company. To make this easier for you, we have compiled a guide to how your insurer makes this assessment.
Police Reports
While the police aren’t always present at the scene of a car accident, it is still quite often the case. And when it is, they are under obligation to draw an official report. If you spot an officer at the scene of the accident, make sure you go up to them and ask them for a copy of the report once it is filed. However, if they aren’t present, you will have to head into the nearest collision reporting center or police station to report the accident in person as soon as possible.
These police reports are extremely important when it comes to providing evidence so be sure to get a copy as soon as possible and show it to your insurance company. Even if you cannot provide one right away, there is still a chance of getting your hands on it later on.
Considering Provincial Traffic Laws
Between provinces, laws regarding vehicle collisions and such vary, and if you are lucky, you may find a local law which can help support your case. Usually, a condensation of these laws can be found at local public libraries. A good personal injury lawyer in Orillia will be able to help you find the law which applies to your accident which can put you at an advantage when the time comes to negotiate with your insurer.
The Special Case of The Left-Turn Collision
When it comes to accidents regarding left turns, the majority of the time, the blame falls on the one taking the turn. However, if the car going straight ran a red light or was driving above the speed limit, the blame may very well be shifted onto them.
The Special Case of The Rear End Collisions
Similar to the case of left turn collisions, rear end collisions lean clearly toward one side. With this being the most common type of car accident, a pattern quickly emerged which showed that the driver in the back car is most often to blame since they are supposed keep a safety distance between their car and the one in front of them. This is so that, no matter how suddenly the other car stops, collision can still be avoided.
There are only a few cases in which the front driver accused a third party of forcing them to a sudden halt which caused the collision. However, this usually doesn’t affect them. There are also cases in which the front driver is deemed to be partially at fault, such as in cases where their brake lights are damaged or a flat tire made them come to a standstill in the middle of the road.