A single-vehicle crash is an accident that involves only one vehicle. However, single-vehicle crashes can injure multiple accident victims, including the driver as well as the passengers. Often, a single-vehicle crash occurs when a car veers off the road and strikes an object or rolls into a ditch or other area downhill. A single-vehicle accident can have many different causes, including the driver’s own negligence.
For example, a recent news article reported a single-vehicle crash in Farmland, Indiana, that killed one person and injured three others. According to local police, the accident occurred when a driver failed to stop at a stop sign and hit a hump in the road at a high speed. As a result, the car went airborne before veering into a ditch. Crash investigators believe the car then struck another embankment, causing it to go airborne again before rolling over multiple times. While the car was tumbling, two passengers were ejected from the backseat. Both backseat passengers and the front seat passenger were transported to the hospital for their injuries. Sadly, the driver died at the scene. None of the vehicle’s occupants were wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
What Are the Causes of a Single-Vehicle Accident?
A single-vehicle accident could result from a number of factors. For example, a driver may be speeding excessively. Traveling at high speeds can make it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the risk of an accident. To avoid a single-vehicle crash, drivers should refrain from speeding. Additionally, drivers who crash their vehicles may be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, causing them to lose control. Driving while intoxicated places a driver and everyone else on the road at risk of a serious accident. It is also illegal. Under no circumstance should drivers operate their vehicles under the influence. Another cause of single-vehicle accidents is distracted driving or “multi-tasking” while on the road. Attempting to text, talk, or eat while driving may cause drivers to veer off the road and crash their cars. Instead, drivers should stay focused on the road ahead and wait to perform these activities until they have reached their destination. These simple steps can help drivers prevent a single-vehicle accident.
Can You Seek Damages After an Indiana Single-Vehicle Accident?
If you were injured as a passenger in an Indiana single-vehicle accident, you may be able to sue the responsible driver for negligence. However, the driver may argue you were partially at fault if you chose to ride in the driver’s vehicle knowing the driver was intoxicated or otherwise impaired. Under Indiana law, a judge or jury will reduce a responsible plaintiff’s damages award by their percentage of fault for the accident. Alternatively, if the plaintiff is more than 50% at fault, the plaintiff cannot recover any damages. Therefore, a defendant will seek to reduce the amount they must pay by arguing you were at fault. An experienced Indiana personal injury attorney can help you develop a case theory to show that you were not at fault for your harm.
Have You Been Injured in an Indiana Single-Vehicle Accident?
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or died in an Indiana single-vehicle car accident, contact Padove Law to discuss your case. Personal injury lawyer Burton A. Padove possesses years of experience representing clients throughout Indiana in all areas of personal injury law. In the event of a serious accident, Attorney Padove will help you gather evidence and develop a legal strategy to help you recover the compensation you need and deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our office at 219-836-2200. We will not bill you for our representation unless we can win compensation on your behalf.