Multi-vehicle car accidents occur when more than two vehicles collide with each other on the road — and complicated situations like these can make it difficult to determine liability. With multiple drivers, it is hard to pinpoint who engaged in distracted driving, who drove recklessly, or who brake-checked, among other possible causes of the collision.
What Factors Influence Liability in Multi-Vehicle Accidents?
In the legal process following multi-car accidents, factors like police reports, eyewitness testimonies, and accident reconstruction expert testimony all play crucial roles in determining liability.
After a major car accident, police typically arrive first at the scene to assess the situation and file a report. This report usually contains important details about the accident, including the positions of the vehicles, the conditions of the road, and statements from the drivers and witnesses. If a party disputes the facts of the case during legal proceedings, police reports can help establish the facts.
Third-party eyewitness accounts can help paint a clear picture of the sequence of events, which can go a long way toward identifying the driver or drivers who should be held liable.
Accident reconstruction experts analyze the accident scene, vehicle damage, and other evidence to reconstruct the accident and determine how it most likely occurred.
How Do Insurance Companies Determine Fault?
Each involved party’s insurance company conducts its own investigations to determine fault. They all review the police reports, examine the evidence, and hire accident reconstruction experts. However, each insurance company has a financial incentive to minimize their own customer’s liability. These conflicts of interest lead to disputes over fault.
To complicate matters, Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence laws allow for multiple drivers to share fault for the accident. Under these laws, the court assigns each involved party a percentage of fault and adjusts compensation accordingly. For example, if the court finds that you were 20% at fault for the accident, it will reduce whatever compensation you get by 20%.
What Are Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents?
Distracted driving, speeding, adverse weather conditions, and tailgating all commonly contribute to multi-vehicle accidents. Distracted driving, which occurs when a driver engages in some activity that diverts their attention from the road, can lead to sudden braking or swerving and cause a chain reaction.
Speeding or driving recklessly decreases the reaction time needed to avoid a collision and increases the severity of impacts. Adverse weather conditions, like rain or fog, can impair visibility and road traction, and tailgating often results in rear-end collisions.
What Do I Do After a Multi-Vehicle Accident?
Begin by seeking medical attention immediately, even if you do not feel hurt. Your personal health and safety are paramount, and you might not notice some injuries right away. Once you have received medical assistance, document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles, their positions, and any visible damage. If possible, gather contact information from witnesses and the other drivers involved.
Notify your insurance company, but be careful about providing statements or signing any documents without consulting a lawyer. In an attempt to save money, your insurance adjusters may attempt to downplay your injuries or offer a quick settlement that does not cover your losses adequately.
The Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Can Help After You Are Involved in a Multi-Car Accident
The two-car collision law is complicated enough — multiple vehicles only add to the complexity. The Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C., have the experience, insight, and dedication necessary to advocate tirelessly for your rights and fight for your best possible compensation. Call 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form. Our offices in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.