Car Accident

Not every car accident involves one driver crashing their car into another vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that about 30 percent of the six million accidents reported each year are single-vehicle crashes. The aftermath of an accident can look quite different when no one else was involved, and many people wonder if they can simply leave the scene. 

If you have injuries from a single-car accident, you should not leave the scene in Idaho. You should report the crash to the police and then go over your legal options with a car accident lawyer in Caldwell, ID.

When to Report a Car Crash in Idaho

Idaho Vehicle Code section 49-1305 discusses your legal responsibilities in a collision. To paraphrase, this law says that:

• If the accident caused any injuries, you are required to notify the police
• If the accident lead to over $1,500 worth of property damage, you must call the police
• If the driver involved in the accident isn’t able to report the crash to the authorities (due to injury or disability), it becomes the passenger’s legal responsibility to do so

Keep in mind these rules apply even if you are the only one involved. If you suffer any injuries or have sufficient property damage, you should always report the accident before leaving the scene. 

Someone Else Might be Liable for Your Single-Car Accident

In single-car accidents, liability doesn’t always lie solely with the driver. There are instances where non-driver parties may share responsibility, and having an official report of what happened by law enforcement can be critical to pursue compensation from liable parties. 

Government Agencies

Poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or improperly maintained infrastructure can contribute to single-vehicle accidents. If a government agency is negligent in its duty to ensure safe roads, they might be held liable for resulting damages. This could involve issues like potholes, lack of proper warning signs, or failure to address known hazards.

If government negligence is suspected, a claim may be filed against the responsible agency. However, it’s important to note that government entities often have specific procedures and limitations on liability, which can vary by jurisdiction.

Car Manufacturers

Defective vehicle components or design flaws can also lead you to lose control of your vehicle and crash. This may include issues with brakes, tires, airbags, or other critical systems. If a malfunctioning part contributes to a single-car accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for producing a faulty product.

In cases involving car manufacturers, a product liability lawsuit may be pursued. This legal action seeks to hold manufacturers accountable for the injuries or damages caused by their defective products.

It’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney to navigate the complexities of these cases. They can assess the circumstances, identify potential liable parties, and build a strong case to pursue the compensation you deserve. You can begin protecting your rights by properly reporting the accident and not leaving the scene.

Need a Caldwell, Idaho, Car Accident Lawyer?

If you were injured in a car accident, Andrew Injury Law’s team of injury lawyers can help. You only have two years in Idaho to file a civil action to recover your losses after an automobile accident, so don’t delay. Contact Andrew Injury Law by messaging us now.