Multi-Car Crash: Who’s At Fault And What To Do?
Corbin Sutter
Traffic Accidents
You often see it on the news or on Youtube: cars crashing onto the car in front, one after the other. However, in the event that you do find yourself in the middle of a multi-car crash, it can get complicated quickly. Not only do these types of accidents cause severe injuries, but getting compensation can also be complicated. What Is A Multi-Car Accident?
A multi-car accident sometimes called a pile-up car crash is a type of accident where more than two cars get into an accident as a result of a chain reaction. The chain reaction often starts with one or two cars colliding, then another car failing to avoid them and therefore crashing into the other cars. Other times, the third driver’s knee-jerk reaction causes them to crash onto another car. In such a case, it is difficult to determine who is at fault and filing insurance claims can be confusing.
Who Is At Fault?
Although Florida is a no-fault state, this law is not applied to multi-car accidents. Instead, the state uses comparative negligence to determine a fair judgment as to who should cover the damages. Under the principle of comparative negligence, the court must determine each party’s proportional share of the responsibility for the accident. Based on this, the court determines their compensation.
The court will investigate each party’s individual negligence. So, even relatively minor negligence—for instance not wearing a seatbelt—will be considered in adjusting the driver’s responsibility for the accident. This is an important factor since, in Florida, at-fault drivers are allowed to seek compensation from the victims even if the latter’s fault is less than 50%.
What To Do After A Multi-Car Accident?
Stay In Your Vehicle And Wait For Responders
Multi-car accidents are extremely dangerous. It is equally dangerous to step out of the vehicle because other accidents may occur. Instead, stay in your car and contact 911 and the police. Wait for them in your car. Turn on your hazards to increase your car’s visibility.
Report The Accident As Accurately As Possible
Once the responders arrive, they will check you for injuries. Then, you will likely be interviewed by the police officers. Tell the first responders any pain or discomfort you felt so you’ll get an accurate report and appropriate treatment. If you feel like you weren’t hurt, don’t say anything and instead let them check you for injuries.
Likewise, report the incidents leading to the accident to the police as accurately as you can. However, be careful with what you say. Don’t say anything that may be considered as an admission of guilt.
Collect Information
Do not leave the scene without gathering information. Take pictures of the accident and of your car. Take note of license plate numbers and the contact information of those involved as well as of witnesses. Get a copy of the police report as well.
Get A Physical Examination
If the responders do not take you to the hospital, head straight there after the accident. Get yourself checked up thoroughly by a physician. There might be injuries that did not show up right away. The medical record can help you get compensation for these injuries later on.
Call Your Insurance Company
You need to call the insurance company as quickly as possible, so it’s best to do this as soon as you are safe. Inform them of the accident and other relevant details. However, do not agree to a recorded statement. Instead, stick to important facts, such as what you need to do to file an insurance claim.
Call A Personal Injury Lawyer
As you can see, multi-car accidents are complicated. It could get even more overwhelming when you are in a state of shock and recovering from an injury. To protect yourself and make sure that you get the right compensation, contact a personal injury lawyer in North Port right away. Whether or not you were at fault in the accident, they will help you throughout the process and deal with the complexities of personal injury lawsuits.