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.
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What Happens If You Fail to Report a Car Accident in Pennsylvania?
If you’re a driver in Pennsylvania, you’re required by law to report a car accident, no matter how minor the collision, and no matter whether you caused it or not. Failing to report a car accident can lead to serious legal and financial consequences: suspension of your driver’s license, fines up to $2,500, and potential criminal charges.
Your insurance company could use the lack of report as the basis for denying your claim, leaving you responsible for medical and repair costs.
Our seasoned Pennsylvania vehicle accident attorneys at Munley Law can help ensure you meet all reporting requirements and follow the rules for the best outcome. Contact our legal team for a free consultation about your case.
Pennsylvania’s Accident Reporting Laws
What do you need to know if you’re a driver involved in a vehicle accident? […]
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One Dead, Another Injured Following a Car Crash in Lycoming County, PA
One person has died following a car crash in Lycoming County on January 22.
According to news reports, the 22-year-old was driving on State Route 87 in Plunketts Creek Township near Barbours around 1 a.m. when he lost control of his vehicle. He hit a tree and was killed.
A passenger inside the car was taken to UPMC Williamsport after the crash. She was later transported to Geisinger Danville.
The cause of the crash is unknown. Police are investigating.
Fatal Car Accidents in Lycoming County
Fatal car accidents in Lycoming County present complex cases that require careful investigation and deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s wrongful death statutes. Our firm often finds these cases involve multiple contributing factors – from the region’s rural roads and mountainous terrain to weather conditions and infrastructure issues. When representing families who have lost loved ones, […]
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Building Collapse Lawyer
When a building collapse occurs, the consequences are devastating – often resulting in catastrophic injuries, loss of life, and
overwhelming financial burdens for victims and their families. At Munley Law, we understand the profound and life-altering impact of these accidents on your health, finances, and future. Our building collapse lawyers thoroughly investigate the cause of the collapse and identify all potentially liable parties, from property owners to contractors, engineers, and construction companies.
Working with structural engineering experts, we determine negligence and safety violations while gathering critical evidence, such as accident reports and witness accounts. Munley Law vigorously advocates to secure just payment for victims’ medical bills, lost income, emotional distress, and long-term care needs. With extensive experience handling catastrophic injury cases, we provide personalized, compassionate support throughout the legal process.
Our Approach to Building Collapse Cases
At Munley Law, […]
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Driver Dies After Car Lands In a Creek in Pittsburgh
Pennsylvania State Police are investigating a fatal car crash in Pittsburgh on January 17.
According to news reports, the car had exited the Squirrel Hill tunnel on Parkway East around 8:30 a.m. Right before crossing the Commercial Street Bridge, the driver lost control of the vehicle, went over a steep embankment and plunged into the creek.
Emergency crews had difficulty accessing the crash site because of heavy machinery that was doing work under the bridge. When they were able to reach the vehicle, they found the driver had died and was still in the vehicle.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Fatal Car Accidents in Pittsburgh, PA
As one of the most populated areas in Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh has seen its fair share of fatal car accidents. According to the latest statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, […]
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Wrong-Way Car Crash Leaves Multiple Injured in Cumberland County, PA
Multiple people were injured following a wrong-way crash along U.S. Route 15 in Cumberland County on January 18.
According to news reports, the accident occurred around 4:40 p.m. on the northbound side of the road. According to the Upper Allen Township Police Department, the vehicle had entered the northbound lanes near mile marker 41.5 and traveled south for at least four miles before the crash.
Police say the wrong-way driver struck at least four other vehicles around mile marker 37. As emergency personnel responded to the scene, both north and southbound sides of Route 15 were shut down.
Multiple people suffered serious injuries in the accident. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, one person was flown to Penn State Hershey.
Police are investigating the crash.
Wrong Way Car Accidents in Pennsylvania
Wrong-way driving accidents represent some of the most dangerous accidents in Pennsylvania. […]
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