Fault Archives - Munley Law® Personal Injury Attorneys

What Is Fault?

Fault is when an entity intentionally or negligently fails to act reasonably, according to legal standards or one’s duty, resulting in harm to another person. This failure can arise from various factors such as ignorance, carelessness, negligence, or a lack of skill. If actions like not being aware, not taking proper precautions, disregarding others, or lacking necessary skills lead to injury to another person, they can all be considered as fault.

Legal scholar John C. Jeffries Jr. states, “Fault is the linchpin of tort liability.” Fault plays a crucial role in various aspects of law, including tort law (civil wrongs), contract disputes, and criminal law. Establishing fault is essential in legal proceedings to determine liability and to assess damages or penalties accordingly.

Fault forms the basis for legal liability and compensation. For example, in a car accident case, fault may be assigned based on factors like speeding, failure to yield, or distracted driving. For plaintiffs seeking damages, proving fault is essential to demonstrate that the defendant’s actions or negligence directly caused their injuries or losses. Conversely, defendants may argue mitigating circumstances or lack of fault to defend against legal claims.

More information about Fault

Pittsburgh Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Finding the right Pittsburgh tractor-trailer accident lawyer can mean the difference between just compensation and unnecessary hardship after you’ve been involved in an accident with these heavy trucks in Allegheny County. Thankfully, with Munley Law, legal representation you can trust is in easy reach. Our board-certified attorneys have championed the rights of injured Pennsylvanians since 1959, helping them recover more than $1 billion in damages.

All our lawyers are members of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the American Association for Justice. Two of our lawyers have led the association’s Trucking Litigation Group, and all our partners have received Martindale-Hubbell’s highest ratings, AV Preeminent. Our firm and our lawyers are routinely honored by some of the most respected legal organizations, such as Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Irish Legal 100, and the International Society of Barristers.

If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, […]

Pittsburgh Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh texting while driving accident lawyers can help you take action if you’ve been injured by a distracted driver in western Pennsylvania. Texting behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving, dramatically increasing the risk of serious crashes. Even a momentary lack of attention on the road can have devastating repercussions for other motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.

In Pittsburgh and throughout Allegheny County, texting-related accidents continue to cause life-changing injuries, from broken bones and spinal damage to traumatic brain injuries, not to mention the financial implications of such a crash. Understanding your legal rights after a texting while driving accident is the first step toward recovering compensation and holding the at-fault driver accountable.

Working with an experienced law firm like Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. With almost 70 years of experience, […]

How Long After a Car Accident Can You Sue in Pittsburgh?

If you’ve been injured in a crash, a Pittsburgh car accident lawyer can help you understand exactly how long you have to take legal action, and why timing matters more than most people realize. In Pennsylvania, strict laws govern how long you can wait before filing a lawsuit, and missing that deadline can mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, lost income, or ongoing pain, knowing your legal timeframe is the first step toward protecting your claim.

With decades of experience handling Pennsylvania car accident claims, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh car accident lawyers know how to move quickly, preserve critical evidence, and build strong cases from day one. When time is limited and the stakes are high, having a trusted legal team on your side can give you clarity, confidence, and the best possible chance at securing the compensation you deserve. […]

Pittsburgh Wrongful Death Lawyer

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh wrongful death lawyers help families seek justice after losing a loved one to someone else’s negligence. Our family-run firm has spent nearly seven decades representing victims in Pennsylvania, earning national recognition and multi-million-dollar verdicts in complex injury and fatality cases. Just some of our wrongful death settlements include $3.9 million, $2.74 million, and $1.4 million.

When a preventable tragedy results in the untimely death of a loved one, families deserve answers, accountability, and financial security. We understand the emotional and financial toll these losses create. Our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys – including board-certified trial lawyers and leaders in national legal organizations – handle every case with compassion and precision.

From fatal crashes to medical negligence and workplace accidents, we build strong cases designed to secure meaningful results for the families we represent. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Can Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Pittsburgh Help? […]

Pittsburgh Distracted Driving Accident Lawyer

Your life can change in a second after being struck by a distracted driver. When it does, having a Pittsburgh distracted driving accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

Driving requires various types of focus, including keeping your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your mind focused on driving. When a driver fails to do any of these actions and causes a car accident, the injury victim has the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against that driver. Our award-winning car accident lawyers have won millions of dollars in compensation for our clients injured in distracted driving cases, and are ready to fight for a similar verdict on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has experienced a motor vehicle accident that involves a distracted driver in Pittsburgh, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact one of the experienced Pittsburgh distracted driving accident attorneys at Munley Law today for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help protect your rights. […]

Pittsburgh Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

how long do Workers Comp benefits last Carbondale

If you were injured on the job, you need a Pittsburgh workers’ compensation attorney who will fight for you.

Workplace injuries can happen when we least expect them. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that a work injury occurs every 7 seconds. That means that approximately 510 employees are injured every hour, 12,600 every day, 88,500 every week, and 4,600,000 every year. If you sustained injuries while working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. To get the maximum compensation in Allegheny County, you need a law firm that will fight for you. You need Munley Law’s Pittsburgh Personal Injury Attorneys.

Our accomplished attorneys are ready to use their skills, knowledge, and board certifications to seek justice on your behalf. We have won millions of dollars for workers injured at work, including settlements of $12 million and $1 million.

Get a free case evaluation and expert support from our Pittsburgh lawyers. […]

Pittsburgh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

When a drunk driving accident leaves you or a loved one injured, an experienced Pittsburgh drunk driving accident lawyer can provide you with the guidance you need to secure life-changing compensation.

If you were hit by a drunk driver in Pittsburgh, you may be facing steep medical bills, loss of income, and uncertainty about the future. The good news is that the law is on your side. Still, many car accident victims never receive the full amount of compensation they are owed because insurance companies settle their claims for less.

A Pittsburgh car accident attorney at Munley Law can ensure you receive every dollar you need to make a full recovery and hold the other driver accountable. Our lawyers have been named some of the leading trial attorneys in the state, and have won millions of dollars for clients injured in drunk driving accidents, […]

How Do I Find the Best Pittsburgh Car Accident Lawyer Near Me?

A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant, and when you’ve been involved in one, having an experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyer on your side is not just beneficial—it’s pivotal to ensure that you receive fair compensation and justice.

However, in a city like Pittsburgh, with many law firms and independent practitioners, finding the right attorney can be a challenge in itself. It’s a task that demands thorough research, discernment, and a clear understanding of one’s own needs.

One law firm that is worth reaching out to is Munley Law. We are a family-owned business that has been representing Pennsylvania residents since 1959. Our partners have been ranked among Pennsylvania’s top trial lawyers, and our experienced team has secured life-changing settlements for car accident victims in Allegheny County and beyond.

Call today for a free consultation to get the process started. […]

What Types of Compensation Can I Pursue in a Hit and Run Case in Pittsburgh?

When another driver hits you or your vehicle and flees the scene of the accident, you need a skilled Pittsburgh hit and run car accident lawyer to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you are entitled to.

Pittsburgh, often regarded as the “Steel City,” boasts iconic landmarks such as the Point State Park fountain and the historic Phipps Conservatory. The city’s rich industrial past sits alongside a vibrant arts scene and historic neighborhoods. However, like many urban areas, Pittsburgh is not immune to hit and run incidents that can disrupt the peace and safety of its residents. In such situations, retaining a reputable firm like Munley Law becomes essential to navigate the legal landscape and ensure victims receive the justice they deserve.

If you’re a victim of a hit and run in Pittsburgh, the support of a knowledgeable auto accident lawyer is crucial to ensure you receive proper compensation for damages and injuries sustained. […]

Pittsburgh Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer

Our experienced team of Pittsburgh drowsy driver accident attorneys at Munley Law understands the devastating consequences of drowsy driving and is committed to fighting for your rights. Our team of personal injury lawyers has a proven track record of successfully handling drowsy driving cases, holding negligent drivers accountable, and securing maximum compensation for our clients.

Falling asleep at the wheel can result in catastrophic accidents, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. When someone is sleepy behind the wheel, their brain power, reflexes, and decision-making skills are impaired, just like when they’ve had a few too many drinks. With our knowledge of the Pittsburgh, PA, laws and regulations surrounding drowsy driving accidents, we are equipped to navigate the complexities of your case. Your well-being is the priority, and we will provide personalized attention, guiding you through the legal process while ensuring your voice is heard. […]

Pittsburgh Driver Error Accident Lawyer

When another driver’s mistake injures you or a loved one in Allegheny County, our Pittsburgh driver error accident lawyers will help to ensure that justice is served.

Located at the heart of Pittsburgh, the city where three rivers meet, our expert team at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys proudly serves residents of the Steel City and its surrounding communities. Each year, numerous car accidents due to driver error occur on Pittsburgh’s busy roads, from the winding byways of Squirrel Hill to the bustling intersections of Downtown, and on the parkways during the heavy rush hours.

Our experienced Pittsburgh car accident lawyers are here to provide you with dedicated, knowledgeable legal representation, helping you navigate the complexities of the law and secure the compensation you deserve.

Our attorneys have won millions for clients injured in accidents caused by driver error, and will use our full resources to fight for a fair outcome in your case. […]

Pittsburgh Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in an accident where the driver has fled the scene, the expert Pittsburgh hit and run accident lawyers at Munley Law are here for you.

The attorneys at Munley Law understand just how devastating the aftermath of these accidents can be, and are ready to fight for the justice you deserve. We have several award-winning trial lawyers and motor vehicle trial specialists on staff who can thoroughly evaluate your case and help to ensure that you are properly compensated for your pain, suffering, and losses.

Our hit and run lawyers can help you and your family recover the compensation you deserve to start moving forward. Contact Munley Law today for a free initial case evaluation and expert support.

What is a Hit and Run Accident?

A hit and run accident generally occurs when the at fault driver leaves the scene of an accident. […]

Pittsburgh Brain Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you love suffered a traumatic brain injury in Pittsburgh, you need a Pittsburgh brain injury lawyer with experience handling complex brain injury cases. At Munley Law, our award-winning lawyers understand that a brain injury doesn’t just change medical outcomes; it can alter every part of a person’s life, from their ability to work and communicate to their independence and long-term care needs.

These cases demand more than basic personal injury representation. They require deep knowledge of medical evidence, neuroimaging, lifelong care planning, and the financial realities families face after a catastrophic injury.

Our team works closely with medical experts, life-care planners, and economists to build a full picture of how the injury will affect your future. We then fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.

To date, we have won some of Pennsylvania’s largest settlements and verdicts, […]

Pittsburgh Erb’s Palsy Lawyer

When a preventable birth injury changes a child’s future, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh Erb’s palsy lawyers can help your family pursue justice. We understand how overwhelming this diagnosis can feel, and we’re here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and proven legal strength.

For nearly seven decades, our nationally recognized trial lawyers have secured landmark verdicts and settlements in complex medical malpractice cases. With multiple Million Dollar Advocates Forum members and consistent recognition from Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers, we bring trusted experience to every case.

Our Pittsburgh birth injury lawyers investigate what went wrong, consult leading medical experts, and fight for full and fair compensation. Contact Munley Law today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight to protect your best interests after a birth injury.

What Is Erb’s Palsy and How Does It Affect Newborns?

Pittsburgh erb's palsy lawyer Also known as Erb-Duchenne paralysis, […]

Pittsburgh Fatal Truck Accident Lawyer

If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, our Pittsburgh fatal truck accident lawyers can help you pursue justice for your loss. Since 1959, we’ve helped the surviving family of those killed in truck accidents negotiate with insurance companies and fight trucking companies in court, obtaining settlements and verdicts such as an $8 million settlement for two motorists who were struck and killed by an out-of-control tractor-trailer.

At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, our goal is to take on the legal challenges that come with fighting for justice, so that you and your family can focus on emotional recovery. Our truck accident lawyers in Pittsburgh, three of whom are board-certified in Truck Accident Law, have been recognized as the best in the country in truck accident litigation. As a result of our expertise in this field, we’ve been honored by the American Association for Justice, […]

Pittsburgh Workers’ Compensation FAQs

Questions about Pittsburgh workers’ compensation often arise after a workplace injury disrupts your health, income, and peace of mind. Munley Law’s Pittsburgh workers’ compensation lawyers are here to answer all your queries and to help injured workers understand their rights and take the next steps.

Munley Law was founded in 1959, bringing nearly seven decades of experience advocating for injured workers and their families. We are known for our nationally recognized trial lawyers and have earned a reputation for results in complex workers’ compensation and personal injury cases.

If you don’t find the answer to your question here, contact us for a free consultation today.

What Are the Largest Industries in Pittsburgh?

Strategically located at the intersection of the Monongahela, Ohio, and Allegheny Rivers, Pittsburgh has been an American center of industry for more than a hundred years. With bountiful natural resources, […]

Pittsburgh Bikeshare Accident Lawyer

Bike share programs like POGOH are a great way to enjoy the pleasures of cycling if you don’t own a bike, but things can go wrong, and our Pittsburgh bikeshare accident lawyer is here to help if your ride ends in a crash. We’ve protected the rights of injured Pittsburghers since 1959, investigating accidents, negotiating with insurance companies, arguing in court, and obtaining multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts.

Gain peace of mind by entrusting your bikeshare accident case to our highly qualified, experienced attorneys who routinely receive honors and accolades from Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, and Best Law Firms. All our lawyers are members of the American Association for Justice and the Pennsylvania Bar Association, and we regularly receive five-star Google Reviews from clients.

If you have been injured in a bikesharing accident in the Steel City, Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys’ Pittsburgh bicycle accident lawyers can help. […]

Pittsburgh 18 Wheeler Accident Lawyer

With injuries that are often severe and involve multiple defendants, a crash involving a large 18-wheeler truck is nothing like a regular car accident, which is why you need an experienced Pittsburgh 18-wheeler accident lawyer on your side. At Munley Law, our team of highly qualified attorneys with more than 250 years of combined experience is ready to get to work for you.

We have led the American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group and were among the first lawyers in Pennsylvania to become board certified in truck accident law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. We’re routinely honored by organizations such as Best Lawyers, Best Law Firms, Super Lawyers, Irish Legal 100, and Martindale-Hubbell for our handling of truck accident cases. By obtaining results such as a $26 million truck accident settlement, our truck accident lawyers have helped accident victims recover more than $1 billion in damages. […]

Pittsburgh Bicycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one is injured while cycling in the Steel City, our Pittsburgh bicycle accident lawyers can help you get fairly compensated for your losses. We have almost seven decades of experience in protecting and fighting for people just like you, helping to recover millions of dollars in damages.

Our attorneys, several of whom are board certified, are known throughout Pennsylvania and beyond for holding the negligent accountable for their actions and for getting results at the negotiating table and in court. Clients regularly give us five-star Google Reviews, and we are routinely honored by legal directories and organizations such as Martindale-Hubbell, Best Lawyers, the American Association for Justice, Super Lawyers, and the National Trial Lawyers.

Munley Law’s Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers are on your side and will work tirelessly to ensure justice is handed out. Contact us today for a free initial case evaluation. […]

Pittsburgh Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

If you have suffered from an injury to your spinal cord due to the negligence of another person, you need an experienced Pittsburgh spinal cord injury lawyer on your side. At Munley Law, our Pittsburgh personal injury attorneys have almost seven decades of experience in complex personal injury litigation. We can work with you to demand the justice you are owed for your injuries, obtaining the compensation you need to recover, just as we’ve obtained multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for other injured Pittsburghers.

Our attorneys’ expertise, watertight cases, and stellar results continue to be recognized by peers, clients, and the most prestigious legal organizations. Our partners all received Martindale-Hubbell’s highest ratings, clients regularly give us five-star Google Reviews, and we routinely receive accolades and awards from various institutions. Among them are the National Trial Lawyers, Lawdragon, Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, and Best Law Firms.

Reach out to Munley Law right away to discuss your spinal injury case. […]