Who’s Responsible?
I’m seeking public input on who may be at fault in this situation and the potential liability outcome.
I had pulled my vehicle onto the shoulder. However, there was no shoulder on the opposite side of the road where my vehicle was positioned. I was getting ready to chain up my vehicle because of the road conditions. I acknowledge that parking there may not have been the smartest decision, but my hazard lights were on. It’s worth noting that her vehicle was seen gliding towards mine well before the incident occurred.
Based on the information you’ve provided, it sounds like you’re in a somewhat complex situation. Here are a few points to consider regarding fault and liability:
Location of the Vehicle: If your vehicle was legally parked on the shoulder and you had your hazard lights on, that could mitigate some liability on your part. However, being in a potentially unsafe area can complicate matters.
Driver Awareness: You mentioned that her vehicle was observed gliding before the impact. If she was aware of the road conditions and failed to maintain control or notice your vehicle, that could indicate a degree of fault on her part.
Road Conditions: If the road conditions were indeed poor, that could shift liability depending on whether the other driver was operating her vehicle recklessly or unsafely given the conditions.
Insurance and Witnesses: The involvement of insurance companies will heavily influence the outcome. They will assess factors like road conditions, visibility, and the statements of any witnesses.
Ultimately, establishing fault may depend on local traffic laws and specifics not provided in the scenario, such as witness statements and camera footage (if available). It may be helpful to consult with a legal expert or insurance representative to get a clearer picture of your situation and liability.