Are Electric Car Accidents Different From Accidents Involving Gas-Powered Cars?
If you are involved in an auto accident that involves an electric car, in many ways, it is no different from an accident involving a vehicle powered by gasoline or diesel. However, there are certain additional requirements that must be made after the accident and the party who fails to meet these requirements with an electric car might be held liable for injuries that result.
Risks Associated With Electric Cars
An electric car can cause electric shock for either party because it is a high-voltage system. Therefore, the car battery must be secured immediately after the crash. These vehicles are also much more likely to catch on fire. The batteries, when damaged, can also release chemicals that can cause injuries due to chemical exposure.
Determining Fault in an Electric Car Accident
If one of the drivers was negligent, she will be considered at fault for the accident. However, there are often additional parties who might also be at fault with an electric car accident. Therefore, someone will need to investigate the cause of the crash to determine what went wrong.
The crash might have resulted from a manufacturing defect or might have been made worse by the defect. For example, the battery might have been made out of materials that were not durable enough to resist the impact of the crash. The manufacturer might have failed to test parts that later failed when placed under strain.
Car manufacturers are also responsible for supplying consumers with necessary safety warnings. For example, if you were not informed that you would need to secure the battery after the accident, you may hold the manufacturer responsible for failing to warn you.
How to Receive Compensation for Your Injuries
Because electric cars operate differently from other types of vehicles, you will need to hire an auto accident attorney who has had experience with cases involving electric cars. Or, at the very least, the law firm that your attorney works at should have expert witnesses who can help you win your case.
You will be entitled to compensation for any injuries that you have suffered. This includes the pain and suffering you have experienced, and any current, past, and future medical bills. If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you will also deserve compensation. However, you will need help from an auto accident attorney to determine everyone who could possibly be at fault.
For more information, an auto accident lawyer can help.
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