Colder weather is coming, causing unpredictable storms and inclement conditions. It is common for drivers in our area to encounter rainy and windy weather, icy streets, and debris littering the roadway. Fallen trees are also a hazard.
A car accident involving a fallen tree can lead to severe injury or death. Fallen trees can cause all types of damage. A neighbor’s tree could fall on your car while parked overnight. A fallen tree in the middle of the road could cause you to swerve and hit another car. Or worse, a tree could fall on you and your car while driving.
Determining liability can be difficult when a fallen tree causes an accident or damages property. Every situation is different, and when a tree falls and causes an accident, there will likely be a thorough investigation into who could be negligent. To prove negligence, the plaintiff must prove that the property owner knew the tree was a hazard.
In most fallen tree cases, you would likely go to your own car insurance company for compensation. This is because most insurance policies offer comprehensive coverage, for which this scenario would apply. However, some drivers waive comprehensive coverage or decline it to save money, so be sure you carry it in your policy if you do not already. This could save you money in the long run.
Comprehensive coverage covers issues such as hail damage to your car or vandalism, but collision coverage can also be used if a tree fell and caused your accident.
You would file a claim with your insurance company through your comprehensive or collision coverage if no one is at fault for the tree. However, if someone or the city is possibly liable, you should speak with a car accident attorney right away. A lawyer can go over every detail of your case and help you get your damages covered.
Our Bowie Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Accident Victims
When a fallen tree causes your accident, you may be able to hold the property owner or city liable for your damages and injuries. Contact our experienced Bowie car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King immediately. Our team has years of experience with these cases and can help. Call us at 202-331-1963 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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