Even Minor Maintenance Mistakes Can Lead To A Car Accident
A poorly maintained car can be dangerous. Even seemingly minor mistakes, like not adjusting a mirror properly or not washing a car, can lead to a car accident. If a driver does not maintain their vehicle, you may be able to use this as evidence that the other driver is at fault.
Debris and Visibility Issues
If the driver does not wash their vehicle, they might have a difficult time seeing and this can lead to an accident. Also, if the windshield wiper blades are worn out and frayed, they will not clean the windshield properly.
The driver might also be out of windshield wiper fluid, and this could prevent the driver from clearing their windshield. The driver will not only be responsible for not maintaining their car but will also be liable for the accident. This is because they recklessly chose to drive while not being able to see.
Improperly Adjusted Mirrors
A driver's mirrors must be adjusted so they can see in as many directions as possible. While a car will have blind spots, these blind spots can become even larger when the mirror is placed in an odd position. This is especially a problem when turning or changing lanes.
The Car Accident Investigation
After the accident, you will need to find out how the accident occurred. For example, while interviewing witnesses, you may find out that the driver tried to make a U-turn and collided with your vehicle. During the U-turn, you may later discover that the windshield was dirty and that the driver was unable to see your car as a result.
Your Settlement Negotiations
Each fact can be relevant in a car accident case. While the driver might have broken traffic laws and this may have directly contributed to the accident, the fact that the driver also poorly maintained their car can also be evidence of negligence. This fact may help your car accident lawyer piece together how the accident occurred.
If your car accident lawyer is engaged in settlement negotiations, they will be more likely to negotiate a larger settlement if they can build a solid case for why the policyholder is at fault for the accident. This is because you will be more likely to win your car accident case if it goes to trial. Even if you are forced to file a lawsuit, the insurance provider might settle at the last minute.