Why Liability can be Confusing in a Multi-Vehicle Accident

Sometimes a car accident involves more than two vehicles, making it difficult to determine liability. Suppose you have been involved in a multi-vehicle crash. In that case, you may be facing concerns that include questions regarding which insurance companies should be put on notice, how you will be compensated for property damage or injuries, and whether or not you are liable for the accident.

With accidents where multiple cars are involved, it can be difficult for police or insurance companies to determine responsibility. Each driver will have his or her version of the story, and witnesses may be confused about what happened first. In addition, fault may be apportioned among the drivers, depending on the accident’s facts, further clouding decisions about liability. The more vehicles involved, the more difficult it can be to determine the causes and get to the bottom of what happened.

Determining Liability

In the aftermath of an accident, it can be difficult to determine liability. You may find that the other drivers involved have a different account of what happened. It is important to give your version of events to the police. Other drivers may have a different version of events.

There are many ways in which multi-vehicle accidents can play out. Chain-reaction accidents often involve one car rear-ending another, causing a chain reaction of at least three vehicles. These scenarios can sometimes present an exception to the usual rule that the rear-ender is typically at fault.

Chain Reaction Accidents

For example, envision a multiple rear-ender accident, where cars A, B, C, and D are driving in a straight line. Car C slams into car B, causing both to come to a screeching halt. Because of that sudden halt, car D comes along and hits car C, causing a chain reaction all the way up to car A. In this case, car C may be at fault even though car D triggered the chain reaction. Every accident is unique, and determining liability in these cases will require careful investigation.

Sometimes, the action of the front car in a multiple vehicle accident is at fault. In these cases, it could involve the front car slamming on its brakes in traffic for no reason or swerving into a different lane, creating an accident.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Some multi-vehicle accidents are just the result of speeding, or other types of negligence, like distracted driving. Weather can also play a role no matter the cause, and it is important to relay your version of events to the police and the insurance company.

Obtain a copy of the police report and, if possible, any witness statements that were made. These documents can help you in the future and may help your attorney build a case. You can also ask if any of the other drivers involved in the crash were issued traffic citations.

Hurt in a Multi-Vehicle Car Accident? Call William Mattar.

From there, it may be worth consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney. Sometimes, insurance companies may deny claims based on where your vehicle is in the chain of the accident. Representation from an experienced car accident attorney may help you work through these issues and possibly help you receive compensation for any resulting pain and suffering. Contact William Mattar today. 844-444-4444.