If you have sustained injuries in a car accident in Manhattan Beach due to the negligent actions of another driver, California law grants you the right to seek compensation for the damages caused by your injuries. This may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
But what happens if you bear some responsibility for the car accident in California? It is not uncommon for multiple parties to share the blame for an accident. It is also possible for a third party, such as a manufacturer of a defective auto part or a negligent road crew, to be at fault. Additionally, adverse weather conditions like rain, wind, snow, ice, or smoke can contribute to car accidents.
Application of Comparative Negligence When Multiple Parties Share Fault in an Auto Accident
In cases where two or more parties share responsibility for an accident, California courts apply the principle of comparative negligence or comparative fault. A judge or jury carefully examines the evidence presented in an injury claim resulting from a car accident to determine the degree or percentage of negligence attributed to each party involved.
Comparative negligence is a straightforward concept. Let’s assume you suffered $50,000 in damages due to the accident. The court determines that you were 10% at fault. As a result, since you bear 10% ($5,000) of the blame for your damages, you would be entitled to collect a total of $45,000 from the other driver.
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Protecting Your Rights After a Car Accident in California
The extent of your liability in the accident significantly impacts the amount of compensation you can receive for your injuries. Therefore, it is crucial to take steps to safeguard your rights, even if you share partial fault in a California car accident. Gather any available evidence after the accident, such as photographs and witness testimonies. Seek medical attention promptly, and consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.
A car accident attorney in Manhattan Beach can assist you in establishing not only who was responsible for the accident but also the extent of their liability. They ensure that blame for the accident is fairly assigned.
An experienced attorney specializing in auto injury cases can provide invaluable assistance after a car accident in various ways, including:
– Collecting evidence to support your personal claim
– Determining the degree of liability, if any, you bear in the accident
– Evaluating the value of your losses
– Handling all legal and administrative tasks
– Negotiating with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf
– Representing your interests in court
Call The Ryan Law Group at (310) 299-9550 to Secure the Compensation You Deserve for Your Accident-Related Injuries. Andrew T. Ryan is an accomplished personal injury attorney in Manhattan Beach. He is dedicated to helping clients obtain the maximum compensation they deserve for injuries resulting from auto accidents. With over 30 years of experience, Andrew has successfully represented injured clients in Manhattan Beach, Hawthorne, El Segundo, Redondo Beach, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, and other South Bay communities. The Ryan Law Group has secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts.
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