Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure who is at fault.
If you’re in a car accident and someone else hits you first, but you then hit another car, you may wonder if you’re responsible for the damages to the second car.
Determining fault in a car accident
When a car accident occurs, the first step is to determine who is at fault. The police determine fault by reviewing the circumstances of the accident, such as the location of the vehicles, the direction of travel and the actions of the drivers involved. If you’re not at fault for the accident, the other driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for covering the damages to your car and any injuries you sustained.
Responsibility for damages to a third party
If another driver hits you and you subsequently hit another car, you may be wondering who is responsible for the damages to the third party’s car. In general, if you’re not at fault for the accident, you are not responsible for damages to a third party. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if you were driving negligently, such as speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your insurance company may hold you responsible for the damages to the third party’s car.
Additionally, driving with an expired license or without insurance can also make you responsible for damages to the third party’s car.
If you’re unsure about responsibility for damages in your situation, consulting your insurance company for guidance is the best option. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when driving, and following traffic laws and regulations can help prevent accidents and minimize damages if an accident does occur.