How to Prove Fault in a Car Accident: What Evidence You Need
After being involved in a car accident, proving fault is crucial for securing compensation for your serious injuries and damages. Whether you’re pursuing a personal injury claim, seeking compensation through your insurance company, or even litigating the matter in court, the right evidence plays a vital role in determining who is responsible for the crash.
At Gold, Khourey & Turak (GKT), we understand how important it is to establish fault in car accident cases. With nearly 50 years of experience serving the Ohio Valley, our team of attorneys has the expertise and experience to handle your car accident claim. If you’ve been seriously injured by another driver’s negligence, we’re here to provide honest legal help and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Types of Evidence Needed to Prove Fault
To prove fault in a car accident, it’s essential to gather and present the right kind of evidence. The following types of evidence are commonly used in car accident cases:
Police Reports
One of the most important documents in proving fault is the police report. When an officer responds to the scene of the accident, they will create a report documenting the details of the crash. This report often includes key information like:
- Statements from the drivers involved
- A reconstruction of the accident
- Witness statements
- Officer’s observations and conclusions about who caused the accident
- Any citations issued (such as tickets for speeding or reckless driving)
Witness Testimony
Eyewitness testimony can be crucial in proving fault. If there are any bystanders or other drivers who saw the accident happen, their statements can provide valuable insight. Witnesses can help confirm important details such as:
- Which driver had the right of way
- Whether one driver was speeding or acting recklessly
- The behavior of the drivers before the crash
Photos and Video Evidence
Photos and videos can make a significant impact. After the accident, document the scene by taking pictures of:
- Vehicle damage
- Traffic signs, signals, and road markings
- Skid marks and vehicle positions
We can also gather footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or dashcams to support your case.
Accident Reconstruction
In complex cases, we may work with accident reconstruction experts who use vehicle data, road conditions, and physical evidence to determine:
- Vehicle speed and impact angles
- Skid marks and damage patterns
- The most likely cause of the collision
Medical Records and Testimony
Medical documentation shows the severity and cause of your injuries. If your injuries are consistent with a specific type of crash (like a rear-end collision), that evidence can support your claim. Medical professionals may also testify to how the injuries occurred and their long-term effects.
Vehicle Data (Black Box Data)
Many vehicles have event data recorders (EDRs), or “black boxes,” that log important crash data, including:
- Speed at impact
- Brake usage
- Whether headlights or seat belts were in use
- Vehicle angle and direction
GKT has experience retrieving and analyzing this data to help prove fault.
Traffic Citations and Criminal Charges
If the other driver was ticketed or charged with a crime (like DUI or reckless driving), that documentation may be used to help prove fault.
How Gold, Khourey & Turak Can Help You Prove Fault
Thorough Investigation
We’ll review every detail of the crash: police reports, witness statements, vehicle data, and more. No stone is left unturned in building your case.
Securing Witnesses and Expert Testimony
We work with experts including accident reconstructionists and medical professionals who can support your claim and clarify complex details.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may try to blame you or reduce your settlement. We’ll use the evidence we gather to prove liability and advocate for your best interest.
Litigation if Necessary
If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’re ready to go to court. With decades of trial experience, we’re prepared to present a compelling case in front of a judge and jury.
Maximizing Compensation
Our work doesn’t stop at proving fault—we aim to recover full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You deserve to be made whole again.
Why Choose Gold, Khourey & Turak?
- Nearly 50 years of trusted legal service in the Ohio Valley
- Licensed in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania
- Focused exclusively on personal injury and car accident claims
- Contingency-based fees—no payment unless we win your case
GKT Can Help Today
Proving fault is essential to recovering the compensation you deserve. The right evidence and the right legal team can make all the difference. If you were seriously injured in a car accident, don’t go it alone—contact GKT today.
Call us at (304) 845-9750 or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation.
Need help? Get help. Get GKT.
Christopher M. Turak focuses his practice in the areas of wrongful death and personal injury, with a special commitment to representing victims injured or killed by drunk drivers.
