What You Should Know if You’re Hurt in A Multi-Vehicle Crash
Posted July 20th, 2016 by Anthony Carbone, PC.
Categories: Auto Accidents.
Multi-vehicle crashes are often the most devastating. Everyone would agree that an accident with just one other car can be an inconvenience. When more vehicles are involved, the roadway can turn into a big mess. Add to that the confusion with liability and insurance issues.
News reports indicate that a three-vehicle crash killed two victims earlier this year on the New Jersey Turnpike. The accident occurred in the afternoon as the cars approached the toll booths at 14C in Jersey City. One car was slowing down to pay the toll and was struck in the rear. The impact of the crash pushed the first vehicle into oncoming traffic. In addition to the causalities, there were several serious injuries.
If you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident, you may be confused and uncertain as to how the accident occurred. Your first concern should be your safety and emergency treatment. If you are able to do so, attempt to take photographs and record information regarding the cars involved in a crash.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes and Liability
In some motor vehicle accidents, it is easy to identify the cause of the accident. Perhaps someone drove through a traffic light or stop sign. In other cases, it may seem obvious that one of the parties was driving while under the influence. Someone may have failed to use a hands free device to text or talk.
Determining fault in a multi-vehicle crash is not always easy. Although one driver may have initiated a chain reaction, all drivers have a responsibility to keep their vehicle under control. This is something the law and insurance companies look at when someone makes a claim.
The question of liability is often investigated with the police report as the beginning basis. If you are involved in this type of accident, make sure the police officer accurately records your statement. Take note of where your vehicle landed after impact. Provide any information you can concerning the accident.
We have already encouraged you to take photographs of the accident scene if you are able to do so. Take pictures of your property damage as well as the other cars involved in the accident. You should also photograph any skid marks and road debris.
If necessary, an experienced personal injury attorney may need to further document the circumstances of the accident. This might mean sending out an investigator to take statements and attempt to piece together how the accident occurred.
Multi-vehicle accidents involve negotiations with multiple insurance company. Each will want to assess a portion of liability to individual drivers. You can still receive compensation for your injuries even if you are apportioned a percentage of liability.
Contact Us
If you were injured in a car accident of any type, the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone would like to assist you. Contact our office for a complimentary meeting to discuss your case.
