Understanding Car Accident Liability Claims

A serious car accident can turn your life upside down in a moment. Beyond the physical injuries, many victims are left facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you shouldn’t be left to bear the burden alone. Filing a car accident liability claim can help you recover the compensation you need to begin putting your life back together.

At Applebaum Accident & Injury Law, we’re here to help you understand your legal rights and options. Here’s what you need to know about car accident liability claims and how they can help you seek justice.

What Is Liability in a Car Accident?

In simple terms, liability means legal responsibility. If another driver—or any party—is found liable for your accident, they may be held responsible for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. To pursue financial compensation, you’ll typically file a liability claim against the at-fault party or their insurance company.

Depending on the facts of your case, different types of liability claims may apply.

Types of Car Accident Liability Claims

Claims Against Another Driver

Most car accident cases involve holding another driver accountable. Whether they were distracted, speeding, impaired, or just careless, negligent drivers who cause crashes can be held liable for the damage they cause. Victims—whether drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists—can pursue claims to recover losses tied to medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Dram Shop Liability

If a bar or restaurant over-served alcohol to someone who then caused a drunk driving accident, that establishment may share liability under dram shop laws. These claims often apply if the intoxicated person was a minor or was visibly impaired. Dram shop liability varies by state, and pursuing such a claim requires careful legal review.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims

Not all drivers carry enough insurance—or any at all. If you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, your own insurance coverage may help fill the gap. Filing a claim under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy can help cover medical expenses, lost income, and more.

Product Liability

Some crashes result not from driver error, but from defective vehicles or auto parts. When a malfunctioning brake, airbag, tire, or other component causes a collision, manufacturers, distributors, or installers may be held responsible. These cases often involve complex evidence and sometimes lead to broader product recalls or mass tort litigation.

Government Liability

If dangerous road conditions—such as broken traffic signals, poor signage, or unmaintained roadways—led to your accident, a government entity may be liable. Claims against local or state governments come with unique filing requirements and shorter timeframes, so it’s essential to act quickly.

Medical Malpractice-Related Claims

Although rare, medical negligence can sometimes contribute to car accidents. For example, a driver may lose control after being improperly medicated or released too early from treatment. When a healthcare provider’s failure leads to a crash, they may be named in a personal injury or third-party liability claim.

Wrongful Death

If you lost a loved one in a fatal car crash, our legal system allows surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims can help recover funeral costs, loss of income, and the emotional toll of losing a family member. However, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within a limited time window, so it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

What Can You Recover in a Car Accident Liability Claim?

When you file a claim, your goal is to be made “whole” again—financially and otherwise. While no amount of money can undo what happened, a successful liability claim can help you recover damages such as:

• Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, prescriptions, and more

• Future medical care: Ongoing treatment, home healthcare, or long-term therapies

• Lost income: Wages lost due to time away from work during recovery

• Reduced earning capacity: If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress

• Scarring or disfigurement: Compensation for permanent changes to your appearance

• Loss of consortium: For the impact on your relationship or family life

• Property damage: Vehicle repair or replacement costs, and other personal property losses

• Rental car expenses: While your car is in the shop or being replaced

Why Choose Applebaum Accident & Injury Law?

At Applebaum Accident & Injury Law, we’re passionate about protecting the rights of injured victims and their families. We don’t just guide you through the legal process—we fight for every dollar you deserve. From day one, we’ll investigate your case, gather critical evidence, and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf so you can focus on healing.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Get Help With Your Car Accident Liability Claim Today

If you or someone you love was hurt in a crash, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Let our experienced team help you determine your legal options and pursue full and fair compensation. We’re here to hold negligent drivers, businesses, and insurers accountable—because you deserve justice.

📞 Call Applebaum Accident & Injury Law today at (855) Call-Paul
📍 Serving clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey
🖱️ Or contact us online to schedule your case review