Liability typically falls on any company in the product’s chain of distribution. This includes the product manufacturer, the parts manufacturer, the assembler, and sometimes the wholesaler or retailer who sold it. Under strict liability rules, you can often sue these parties even if they were not careless. The goal is to hold the responsible commercial entity accountable for placing a dangerous product into the stream of commerce.

Insurance companies conduct their own investigations to protect their financial interests. They review all evidence—police reports, photos, witness statements, and vehicle damage—to determine which policyholder they believe was negligent. Their goal is to minimize payout. They apply state traffic laws and negligence principles to the facts. Be cautious when speaking with the other driver’s insurer, as they may use your statements to assign you partial fault. It is often wise to let your own insurance company handle communications.

Your ability to claim damages depends heavily on your state’s laws. In “comparative negligence” states (the majority), you can still recover money, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were 30% at fault, you get 70% of your damages. In a few “contributory negligence” states, being even 1% at fault can completely bar you from recovery. Always report the accident to your insurer; they will handle the negotiation with the other party’s insurance based on these legal frameworks.