Best Personal Injury Lawyers in San Antonio, TX

What is Force Majeure? Force majeure, a French term meaning "superior force," refers to extraordinary events or circumstances beyond anyone's control, such as natural disasters, war, or severe weather conditions. In legal terms, it is used to absolve parties from liability or obligation when an unforeseeable event prevents them from fulfilling a contract. How Force Majeure Impacts Auto Accident Claims When an auto accident occurs due to a force majeure event, determining liability can be complex. Here’s how force majeure might impact your claim: Negligence and Liability: Typically, auto accidents are evaluated based on negligence. However, if an accident is caused by an unforeseeable event, it can be challenging to prove negligence. For example, if a driver loses control of their vehicle due to a sudden earthquake, it might be considered a force majeure event, potentially absolving them from liability. Insurance Claims: Insurance companies may scrutinize force majeure claims closely. Policies often have specific clauses regarding coverage during natural disasters or other force majeure events. It’s crucial to understand your policy details and how these clauses might affect your claim. Legal Proceedings: If you decide to take legal action following an accident caused by a force majeure event, you’ll need an experienced attorney. Proving that an event was indeed force majeure and that it directly caused the accident requires detailed evidence and expert testimony.