In the state of Pennsylvania, if someone pulls out in front of you and causes a car accident, they are usually at fault. However, liability could be split if your actions somehow contributed to the accident.
Our experienced car accident attorneys at Soloff & Zervanos take a deeper dive into this topic so you have a better understanding of potential liability in these situations. Call us now to learn when and if you could share the fault if someone pulls out in front of you.
The other driver is typically at fault for pulling out in front of you because they failed to yield, which is a serious violation. Whenever someone is entering traffic from a driveway, side street, or intersection, they need to wait until the path is clear. If they misjudge distance or time, they would likely be held responsible for a crash because this action violates fundamental right-of-way laws that protect vehicles already in the flow of traffic.
Several factors could lead to shared liability in a traffic accident. For example, if you were traveling significantly over the speed limit, you could contribute to the fault in this circumstance. Distracted driving, such as texting, reduces your ability to take evasive action and may also factor into liability for a collision. Thankfully, Pennsylvania has a Modified Comparative Negligence rule, which means you may be eligible to collect a settlement if you were injured because someone pulled out in front of you, if you are less than 51 percent at fault.
After an accident with another driver who pulled out in front of you, seek immediate medical care when you are injured. If the accident was minor, and you are able, collect as much evidence at the scene as possible, such as the other driver’s contact information, witness statements, and photographs. Make note of your driving speed, if any distractions played a part in the collision, and the exact sequence of events. The next steps are to contact the attorneys at Soloff & Zervanos, P.C. for guidance.
While you are not usually at fault if someone pulls out in front of you, under modified comparative negligence, you may not be able to recover all of your damages. That is why you need to speak to a legal advisor right away. Do not let the other driver’s insurance company take advantage of you.
Let our relentless team fight for you. We offer free consultations and a contingency fee structure, so you have nothing to lose but the compensation you may be entitled to under the law.
