Can I File a Lawsuit if the Car Accident Was My Fault? [2024]

Over the past four years, car insurance companies have paid out a startling $117 million in liability coverage to cover the expenses stemming from the numerous auto accidents that occur annually. However, things get considerably more complex if you’re the one at fault for the accident.

The question that often arises is whether individuals can file a lawsuit and pursue damages in such cases. This depends on multiple factors, the most important being the state in which you reside and its legal system. 

In this article, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of how each state calculates liability in these instances, the types of damages you can seek after a car accident, and the essential steps to take when considering filing a lawsuit. 

Determining Liability

Liability in car accidents is determined based on the legal principles and rules governing negligence in each state. Some states follow contributory negligence, while others practice comparative negligence, and there are also at-fault states. 

Contributory negligence states

In contributory negligence states, including Alabama, North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., if a party is found even slightly at fault for the accident, they may be entirely barred from recovering damages. This means that even if the plaintiff is 1% at fault for the accident, they may not recover any damages.

However, it’s important to note that contributory negligence varies in these states, and the specific legal nuances can differ. For example, although Washington, D.C. generally follows a contributory negligence doctrine when determining liability for car accidents, the federal district allows pedestrians and cyclists to sue motorists for medical bills and property damage, even if they are 50% at fault. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney to understand the legal implications and potential challenges associated with pursuing a personal injury claim in these states, as contributory negligence places a high burden on plaintiffs to prove their innocence in an accident.

Comparative negligence states

In comparative negligence states, liability in personal injury cases resulting from car accidents is determined by assessing the degree of fault or negligence of all parties involved. There are two primary types of comparative negligence, pure comparative negligence and modified comparative negligence.

Pure comparative negligence

In states that follow pure comparative negligence, plaintiffs can recover damages even if they are primarily at fault for the accident. However, the amount they can recover is reduced in proportion to their level of responsibility. For example, if a plaintiff is found 80% at fault for an accident, they can still recover 20% of the damages. 

States that follow pure comparative negligence include:

• Alaska 

• Arizona

• California 

• Florida

• Kentucky

• Louisiana

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• New Mexico

• New York 

• Rhode Island 

• South Dakota 

• Washington

Modified comparative negligence

In states that follow modified comparative negligence, there is a threshold that determines whether a plaintiff can recover damages. This threshold is usually set at 50% or 51%. If the plaintiff’s degree of fault is equal to or greater than this threshold, they are barred from recovering any damages. If their fault is below the threshold, they can recover damages, but the amount is reduced in proportion to their level of fault. 

States that follow modified comparative negligence with a 51% threshold include:

• Arkansas 

• Colorado 

• Georgia 

• Idaho

• Kansas

• Maine

• North Dakota

• South Carolina

• Texas

• Utah

• West Virginia

States that follow modified comparative negligence with a 50% threshold include:

• Connecticut 

• Delaware 

• Hawaii 

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Iowa 

• Massachusetts

• Michigan 

• Minnesota

• Montana 

• Nevada 

• New Hampshire 

• New Jersey

• Ohio

• Oklahoma

• Oregon

• Pennsylvania 

• Tennessee

• Vermont 

• Wisconsin

No-fault states

In no-fault states, individuals involved in car accidents typically turn to their own insurance companies for compensation, regardless of fault. This means that even if you caused the accident, your insurance company is responsible for covering your medical expenses and, in some cases, other losses, like lost wages or property damage, up to the limits of your policy. This system is intended to provide more immediate compensation and reduce the need for lengthy legal battles. 

Some no-fault states also have thresholds, which, if exceeded, allow individuals to step outside the no-fault system and pursue legal action against the at-fault party – these states include:

• Florida

• Michigan

• New Jersey

• New York

• Pennsylvania 

Types of damages

If you cause a car accident, you may be liable for economic and non-economic damages, depending on the circumstances and the laws in your jurisdiction. Still, you may also be able to recover some damages if you live in a comparative negligence state. It’s essential to consult with legal counsel to understand the specific damages that may apply in your case. 

Economic damages

Economic damages are tangible, quantifiable losses that can be directly tied to the accident, such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. These damages are typically easier to calculate because they involve actual financial expenses.

Non-economic damages

Alternatively, non-economic damages are intangible losses that are more subjective. They include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship. These damages are often more challenging to quantify and depend on the individual’s personal experiences and the severity of the accident’s impact on their life.

How to File a Lawsuit

Filing a lawsuit after an auto accident involves several steps, and it’s important to be aware of the process alongside the legal and financial considerations. These steps generally include the following:

1. If you’ve been injured in the incident, seek immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being should be the top priority, and any resulting documentation can be vital if you’re pursuing legal recourse.

2. Notify your insurance company about the accident. This is usually a requirement in your insurance policy.

3. Determine if you have a valid case for a lawsuit. To do this in a situation where you’re partially at fault, you need to establish that the other party was at least equally negligent and that this contributed to your injuries and losses. 

4. You’ll also need to establish if your accident falls within your state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims — the legal time frame for filing a lawsuit after an accident. This figure varies by state but usually ranges from one to four years. 

5. Collect evidence of the accident — including police reports, medical documentation, witness statements, and photographs.

6. While not required, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is often recommended. An attorney can provide valuable legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court. 

7. If you decide to proceed with legal action, your attorney will file a complaint in the appropriate court, outlining the details of your case.

How car insurance rates are impacted after an accident

Your car insurance rates can increase, especially if you were found at fault after an accident. Insurance companies often view at-fault accidents as indicators of higher risk, leading to premium hikes. The extent of the increase can vary based on the severity of the accident and the insurer’s policies. 

Moving forward without legal help

Moving forward without an attorney is possible, but it can be challenging, especially when dealing with complex or disputed cases. Here are the most critical steps to consider if you’re proceeding solo:

1. Research your state’s laws, the legal process, and your rights. 

2. Organize all of the necessary documents and evidence.

3. Communicate directly with the other party’s insurance company. Be cautious and consider consulting an attorney before accepting any settlement offers.

For less complex cases with more minor damages, you may file in small claims court, which typically has simplified procedures.

Resources

If you’re seeking compensation for a car accident in which you were partially at fault, seeking legal help can make a significant difference in the outcome of your efforts. A well-qualified personal injury attorney can navigate complex legal systems, negotiate with insurance companies, and maximize your settlement. However, if hiring an attorney isn’t possible, some no-cost legal resources can help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

Hiring an attorney

While legal representation may seem expensive, it’s often a wise investment. If you want reputable representation, visit Expertise.com’s Personal Injury Lawyer Directory. The directory features vetted professionals chosen for their strong reputation and skillset. It’s easily searchable by metro area, allowing you to find your ideal attorney in just a few clicks.

Going through insurance

You can also seek compensation through insurance, although it involves several steps. While having a lawyer on your side will ensure a fair settlement, it’s possible to handle this process on your own. 

Start by reporting the accident to your insurance company, gathering evidence, documenting injuries, and estimating damages. Then, submit a demand letter outlining your claim. Negotiations will be entirely your responsibility, and you’ll need to be persistent to achieve success. 

Understanding personal injury laws

By simply knowing the personal injury laws in your state, you may be able to secure compensation in a situation where you’re partially at fault for a car accident. This includes knowing if your state follows contributory or comparative negligence or operates as a no-fault state. Additionally, awareness of statutes of limitations, liability limits, and insurance requirements is crucial.