Multi-Car Accident

Common causes of multi-car accidents

Multi-vehicle collisions can occur because of a variety of factors and driver behaviors. Here are some common causes:

• Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or eating can divert a driver’s attention and lead to accidents.

• Speeding: Driving too fast reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it more likely that any change in the course could cause a collision. This could happen due to another driver stopping suddenly or a change in road conditions.

• Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle can leave very little reaction time in the event someone stops suddenly in front of you.

• Reckless driving: Erratic driving, such as weaving in and out of lanes, sudden lane changes, or aggressive driving, can increase the risk of a multiple-car pile-up.

• Poor weather conditions: Weather conditions such as rain, snow, fog, or ice can reduce visibility, affect traction, and result in crashes.

• Failure to yield: Failing to yield the right of way at intersections can cause crashes involving multiple vehicles.

• Driving under the influence: Driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or medication can significantly impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination.

How many collisions are there in a crash?

Believe it or not, there are actually three collisions that happen in every crash. First, is the vehicle collision. This could be another vehicle or any solid object, such as a concrete barrier. Next, is the human collision involving the people in the vehicle or vehicles involved. And lastly is the internal collision that takes place within the occupants’ bodies. Even when the body stops, the internal organs continue forward until they collide with something else inside the body. This can cause damage, such as ruptures, tears, and blunt force trauma.

Who is responsible in a multiple-car accident?

It can be extremely difficult to decide who is at fault in a multi-vehicle crash. Here are some factors that investigators will look at to make a decision:

• Initial collision: If they can determine which driver caused the first collision and triggered the chain reaction, that person may be held responsible for the entire accident.

• Negligence: If there was one driver who acted negligently, that driver may be considered at fault entirely. For example, if the driver was engaging in behaviors such as reckless driving, speeding, texting, or failure to yield, they may have caused the entire accident.

• Violation of traffic laws: If any driver involved in the chain reaction accident violated a traffic law, they could be considered at fault. This would include failing to yield, making an illegal maneuver, or speeding. 

Some states follow a comparative fault system, where more than one party can be found responsible. For example, one driver could be found 70% at fault for failing to yield, while another driver could be found 30% responsible for speeding. In these cases, damages could be split accordingly.

Who pays in a multi-car accident?

Determining who pays in a multi-car accident usually depends on who is found to be at fault. Generally, that person or their insurance company will have to pay for damages and injuries caused by the accident. However, they will still have to take comparative fault into consideration in states that use it.

How does insurance work in a multi-car accident?

In any accident, each driver involved should file a claim with their own insurance company. Those companies will then investigate the accident to determine who is at fault. The insurance company of the driver at fault will be responsible for paying for the damages and injuries caused by the accident. The amount paid, however, depends on the deductions and coverage limits of the policy.

What to do if you’ve been involved in a multi-car collision

Being involved in any accident can be a traumatic experience, but when multiple vehicles are involved, it can add even more confusion and chaos. It’s important to take the appropriate steps to protect your safety and your legal rights. 

1. Prioritize safety: Your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic, turn on your hazard lights, and check for injuries. Assess your own injuries and those of anyone else involved if possible.

2. Call 9-1-1: This should ideally be done immediately, while you are assessing injuries and moving to safety. The operator will ask you questions about injuries and damage so that they can decide what responders need to be contacted.

3. Exchange information: If you are able, exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with other drivers. Keep in mind that tensions could be high. If it seems unsafe to engage with others, then keep your distance.

4. Gather evidence: Gather any evidence you can, such as photos of skid marks, road conditions, damage, etc. Investigators will do this, too, but it’s always good to have as much information as possible.

5. Do not admit fault: While you may be getting contact information from other drivers, limit your interaction. Do not admit fault to anyone. This could be used against you later.

6. Contact an attorney: Call a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can provide legal guidance, help you protect your rights, and advocate for you with investigators and insurance companies.

7. Notify your insurance company: You will need to report the accident to your insurance company to provide them with the facts. However, avoid admitting fault or signing any documents without consulting with your lawyer. 

Legal consideration

Being involved in a multi-car accident can raise a lot of legal concerns. For one thing, understanding your insurance coverage and that of the other drivers can be confusing. These companies can also be difficult to deal with since they are protecting their own bottom line. Getting your personal injury lawyer involved can be crucial during this stage. 

Settlement vs. litigation is another common decision you’ll have to make as a victim of a multi-vehicle crash. Sometimes, these cases can be resolved through negotiations with insurance companies, while others require litigation. Your attorney can help you understand the pros and cons of each.

Another factor is fault determination. This can be a complicated issue due to the involvement of other vehicles and drivers, so it’s best to let a skilled attorney advocate for your rights and interests. 

If you had a loved one who was killed in an accident, it’s also possible that you’ll need to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This can happen after insurance negotiations and other settlements, but you will need your attorney’s help.

How we can help

If you or a loved one has been involved in a multi-car accident, it’s important to seek the counsel of an experienced legal team immediately. At Adam S. Kutner Injury Attorneys, we are here for you. With a proven track record of handling multi-car accidents and other complicated personal injury cases, our team has the expertise and knowledge you need. We understand the overwhelming nature of these accidents and the challenges you will face. We will be with you every step of the way.