What To Do If You Were Involved in A Multi-Car Accident
Accidents are bound to happen with millions of cars sharing the road each day. Most involve two drivers, and determining who’s at fault is fairly straightforward.
However, multi-car accidents can be significantly more complicated and incredibly traumatic for everyone involved. Insurance companies may also spend months investigating who’s responsible for the accident. Even if you’re shaken up by the experience, understanding what to do after it happens will help you protect your rights and get compensation.
What Is A Multi-Car Crash?
A multi-car accident involves a collision involving at least three cars or more. Driving under the influence, severe weather, or reckless driving are common reasons these collisions happen.
While many types of multi-car accidents exist, pile-ups are the most damaging. After seeing the first few accidents in front of them, a driver tries to break quickly, but their vehicle ends up crushed between the car in front of them and the car behind. The chain reaction can also make it extremely difficult to pinpoint who’s responsible.
Who Is Responsible For Your Damages?
The most complicated part about multi-car collisions is determining everyone’s responsibility. Law enforcement and insurance companies will thoroughly investigate the accident’s details and gather information about how everything happened. From there, they can determine which driver(s) caused the chain reaction to start in the first place.
New York is a pure comparative negligence state, meaning all drivers involved can file a claim even if they were partially at fault. For example, if you were found to be 15% liable, you can still claim up to 85% of what you were awarded. The state also has no-fault insurance laws so that you can request reimbursement for any lost wages or medical treatment costs.
What To Do Immediately After The Accident
Try to assess your injuries and call for help as soon as possible. Also, try to take pictures and gather as many details about the event as you can. Facts like the date, incident location, witness statements, and the other drivers’ details will help you and your attorney build a stronger case.
A doctor should also see you immediately, even if you believe you’re okay. Some injuries may not be apparent, and only a doctor’s examination provides an accurate diagnosis. You can also use the medical diagnosis as supporting evidence when you file your claim.
Recover Your Losses With The Help Of Our Lawyers
While accidents happen every day, being the victim of a multi-car collision is particularly devastating. Multiple drivers were involved, and finding out who’s responsible is an uphill battle for investigators. But if you follow the proper steps after the accident to protect yourself, you can quickly receive compensation for your losses.
Our team of experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers can help you sort through your case’s details and hold the responsible driver(s) accountable for their actions. Please contact us online or at (866) 574-0729 to schedule a free trial consultation today.