Following a Multi-Vehicle Accident, Connecting the Cause with Liability
Steps to Take After a Multi-Vehicle Crash in NJ
Multi-vehicle accidents can get very complicated. When there are multiple drivers and multiple crashes, it can be confusing to determine who is liable for the damages that occurred. It is not uncommon for there to be more than one claim of damages in a multi-vehicle accident, which means that an investigation of who is liable will need to follow each claim.
Determining Cause in a Multi-Vehicle Accident
There is usually more than one driver to blame when a multi-accident occurs. For example, one driver might be responsible for the initial crash that led to other drivers also crashing, but the other drivers may also be found at fault.
A multi-vehicle accident is often a spiraling effect. If the initial driver was distracted and ran a red light, crashing into a car in the intersection, the actions of the car in the intersection, as well as the cars behind them, can also affect other drivers.
Perhaps when the driver in the intersection crashed into the distracted driver, the driver behind them was following too closely and then rear-ended them. If other drivers are not paying attention, this reaction can continue, leading into a disastrous car accident. As you can see, multiple drivers would be at fault here.
How to Determine Fault
Because multi-vehicle car accidents get quickly get complicated, it is best to work with an experienced car accident lawyer. Your lawyer, as well as police enforcement and other legal representation, will work to determine who is at fault for which part of the multi-vehicle accident.
They will use the following information to determine who is at fault for what:
- Witness statements
- Vehicle damage reports
- Photographs of the scene of the accident
- Video footage
- Expert witness reports
Using this information, we can determine the cause of the accident, as well as who is responsible for any damages.
Importance of Working with a Lawyer in a Multi-Vehicle Accident
Some accidents are straightforward and it is easy to see who is at fault. Multi-vehicle accidents, however, are rarely that easy. It is important to work with a car accident lawyer when dealing with a multi-vehicle accident for the following reasons:
- Represent your best interests: It is likely that the other drivers will also have their own legal representation. Hiring your own personal injury lawyer ensures that your best interests in the case are also protected.
- Investigate the details of the case: In order to investigate the details of the case and to determine who is at fault, it is important to begin working with a lawyer as soon as possible. Otherwise, you run the risk of losing time-sensitive information and going over New Jersey's statute of limitations.
- Calculate the value of your case: The insurance companies involved may attempt to minimize your damages. A lawyer that represents your case will calculate the value of your case, factoring in all damages you have experienced.
- Navigate the legal process: Navigating a multi-vehicle accident can be very complicated and overwhelming. A lawyer will help walk you through the process so you know what to expect with each step.
Following a multi-vehicle accident, each party will attempt to figure out who holds what percentage of the fault. The information that is determined will dictate who is responsible for which damages.
Contact an Edison Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Multi-Vehicle Case in New Jersey
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a multi-vehicle accident in New Jersey? Don't let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. represent clients injured because of a multi-vehicle accident in Edison, Woodbridge, Middletown, Piscataway, and throughout New Jersey. Call (732) 906-1500 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1862 Oak tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820, as well as offices in Brick, Freehold, and Point Pleasant Beach.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
