Multiple-vehicle car accidents can cause serious injuries and financial loss to all parties involved. If you are ever involved in one of these accidents, it is quite important that you know your rights, so you won’t end up getting blamed for what isn’t your fault.
For someone without a legal education background, the legal system can be challenging, especially when dealing with accidents caused by more than one party. The process can be cumbersome and time-consuming. This is why you need to start researching places to find the right car accident attorney once you are involved in a car accident.
Fortunately, wherever you are in the country, several auto accident attorneys specialize in this area of law and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about auto accident attorney services for multiple-vehicle crashes.
What are Multiple-Vehicle Accidents?
Multiple-vehicle accidents, also called pile-ups, or chain-reaction crashes, are accidents involving more than one vehicle. These crashes can occur at any time of day, but they’re most common during rush hour traffic on highways.
Multiple-vehicle collisions are one of the most common forms of traffic crashes in the United States. In fact, some studies show that more than 40 percent of all fatal accidents are caused by multiple vehicles. They’re also the most complex and require careful analysis.
Causes of Multiple-Vehicle Accidents
There are different causes of multiple-vehicle accidents. While each type of accident has its specific cause, some common causes of multiple-vehicle accidents include:
- Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving
- Defective brakes, tires, or other parts
- Speeding
- Dangerous road hazards
- Not wearing a seat belt or helmet
- Adverse weather conditions
- Tailgating
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Violating traffic laws or signals
Determining Liability in Multiple Vehicle Accidents
In an accident involving multiple vehicles, determining liability is always hard. To determine who was at fault in a multiple-vehicle accident, it is necessary to consider all the facts surrounding the incident and provide evidence, including the following:
- Police accident reports
- Photos and video from the accident scene
- Surveillance camera
- Eyewitness statements
- Data from vehicle electronic data recorders
- Vehicle damage reports
- Accident reconstruction reports
What To Do If Involved in a Multi-Car Crash
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing that you should do after a multi-car crash is to seek medical attention. It is important to have an accurate and immediate assessment of your injuries. Even if you don’t have visible injuries, the shock of the crash can cause internal injuries and other problems that can be serious or even deadly.
Document the Accident Scene
Document the scene by taking photos and video of all involved vehicles and any other objects in the area. In addition, if there are any witnesses or victims, it is also necessary to get their contacts and get their statements about what happened. You should also get the insurance company’s information.
Avoid Discussing the Crash
If you are injured in an accident and need medical treatment, it’s important not to discuss the incident with anyone else who was involved. Insurance agents will often try to get information from other drivers without their consent to negotiate settlements with them.
Speak With a Multiple-vehicle Accident Attorney
The first step is to speak with a multiple-vehicle accident attorney. Your attorney can help you investigate who is at fault for the crash, gather evidence, and build a strong case for your compensation.
How Can a Multiple-vehicle Accident Attorney Help You?
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you’ll want to know how your case will be handled. A lawyer can help you get through this process and ensure everything goes smoothly. Below are other ways an experienced lawyer can help you:
- Gathering and reviewing evidence
This includes collecting information from witnesses, investigating accidents, and reviewing police reports.
- Documenting your losses in full
A good car accident attorney will help you complete a detailed report that includes the total amount of all damages caused by accident, including medical expenses and lost wages.
- Negotiating for a settlement
A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Filing your claims
The process of filing a claim can be complicated and time-consuming, but an attorney can help make sure that everything goes smoothly for you.
Auto accident attorneys pay attention to the necessary details and can secure your rights in such cases successfully. When multiple vehicles are involved, the damage is greater, and it is a wise decision to hire an auto accident attorney who has a proven track record for ensuring positive outcomes for their clients.
