News & Articles

Who is Liable in a No-Contact Car Accident?

May 17th, 2023
No Contact Car Accident

There are millions of motor vehicle accidents each year, and unfortunately, thousands lead to serious injuries and death. And despite what we envision when we think of an auto accident, the fact of the matter is that many accidents take place without two cars physically hitting one another. This is referred to as a no-contact car accident.

No-Contact Car Accidents

These types of cases can be challenging because, in some cases, the driver that caused the accident may not have even realized they caused a crash and continued driving. That’s why it’s imperative to contact an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney as soon as possible if you’ve been involved in a no-contact car accident.

Through a free consultation, a car accident attorney can answer your questions and work with the insurance companies, police departments, and other involved parties to ensure you’re able to be compensated for your losses.

Types of No-Contact Car Accidents

A no-contact car accident happens when another driver’s actions caused you to crash your vehicle. The at fault driver doesn’t actually strike your vehicle in this case, but they could still be liable for your injuries and other damages.

Some types of no-contact accidents include:

  • A driver who doesn’t yield the right-of-way and forces you to move out of the way
  • A driver who ran you off the road when they changed lanes without looking
  • A driver who cuts you off, forcing you to get out of the way
  • A driver who stops suddenly in front of you, forcing you to swerve out of the way to avoid hitting them

Many times, a no-contact car accident involves hitting other cars or fixed objects along the road.  Motorcyclist, too, are often victims of these negligent acts.

No Contact Motorcycle Accidents

When a motorcycle accident happens and it involves another negligent driver, but no contact is made, it is known as a no-contact motorcycle accident. In these cases, the driver who caused the accident can be held legally responsible for injuries, property damage, and more–even if their vehicle did not actually collide with the motorcycle.

Types of No Contact Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are trained to be defensive drivers. If they see a car or truck driver driving erratically or making dangerous moves on the road, they may lay their motorcycle down in order to avoid a collision. For example, if a driver changes lanes without notice, a motorcyclist will do everything he or she can to avoid a crash. Even though they’ve avoided a major collision in this case, riders can sustain serious injury.

Because no-contact accidents often involve drivers who are completely unaware of the fact they caused an accident, witnesses are especially significant in these cases.

Liability for No-Contact Accidents

A driver that causes an accident, but does not contact your car, is no less liable than a driver who slams into your car. Unfortunately, many no-contact car accidents are considered single car accidents by the insurance companies which means the victim is responsible for the crash.

If you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver in a no-contact accident, the following can help you if you choose to file a claim:

  • Get a police report and request a copy.
  • Make sure you have all witness names and telephone numbers so they can describe what happened.
  • Take photos of the accident scene and document as much as you can, including road conditions, other vehicles, weather conditions, and nearby road signs as they can all help you build your case.
  • If possible, document the at fault driver’s license plate number, their driver’s license number, and all other important information to include their vehicle insurance information.

Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys in York, PA

If you’ve been injured in a no-contact car accident or a no-contact motorcycle accident, contact the law offices of Dale E. Anstine. Our experienced car accident attorneys will help you understand your rights, and will work with the insurance companies, police departments, and other pertinent parties to ensure every base is covered when it comes to getting your maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.

We have a long-standing winning record when it comes to helping Central Pennsylvania accident victims, winning more than $250,000,000 for our clients. We’re happy to discuss your case and help you too. Just dial 717-846-0606 or you can ask your questions through the live chat on our website. We’re available 24/7 for free consultations.