Not every car accident involves two or more automobiles. Some instead are single-vehicle collisions where the driver collides with a fixed object. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), vehicles leaving the roadway and colliding with a fixed object such as a tree, pole, road sign, or traffic barrier account for around 20 percent of all car crash-related deaths.
Individuals often assume that the driver of a fixed object accident is immediately at blame, but this is not always the case. For a number of reasons, other parties could be at fault for the accident. If you collided with a fixed object because of another party’s fault, a resourceful attorney may be able to help you fight for compensation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents with Fixed Objects
You may be entitled to compensation if your accident was caused by any of the following:
Another Driver
A reckless driver can cause an accident without actually colliding with your vehicle. For example, if a drunk or distracted driver veers into oncoming traffic, it may have caused you to swerve to escape a head-on collision. This can cause you to hit a stationary object such as a light post or a tree. In this situation, the negligent driver could be held responsible for the accident.
Property Owner
Near major highways, residents and businesses are expected to maintain travel areas free of debris and stationary objects. If you veered off the road into a parked vehicle, farm equipment, fence, or another object that was located too close to the road, a local attorney can help you fight to hold the property owners liable for your damages. You may also be able to file a claim against the owner’s business or homeowner’s insurance if you diverted off the road to avoid hitting an unsecured pet or farm animal.
Commercial Companies
Under federal law, truckers and the organizations that employ them are responsible for ensuring the goods they are transporting are adequately secured. If those goods are not secured and spill onto the road, especially at high speeds, they could be held liable for any harm or property damage you sustain.
Local, State, or Federal Agencies
Road maintenance is frequently the responsibility of local, county, and state governments. They have a responsibility to ensure the roadways are safe for vehicles. This includes safe road design, adequate lighting, removing debris, appropriate signs, and more.
Auto and Product Manufacturers
Before releasing vehicles and vehicle parts, manufacturers are required to inspect and test the vehicles. If a manufacturing company knew or should have known about a design defect such as a faulty engine or electrical system, defective brakes, or other hazards, the company may be held liable in an injury lawsuit. In more serious cases, a class action lawsuit can be filed against the negligent auto or product manufacturer, as well.
Drug Manufacturers
Several prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications have serious side effects such as drowsiness, impaired sight, and hallucinations. These side effects can be dangerous and even fatal to drivers. A drug company is required to alert the public of these side effects on the label of their product.
We Can Help if You Were Injured in a Fixed Object Car Crash
If you have been injured in a car accident with a fixed object, an experienced single-vehicle accident lawyer can help you determine liability. Our compassionate and knowledgeable lawyers can assist you in filing a claim to seek compensation for the injuries and damages you have incurred. Contact us today to get started on your claim.
