Determining liability in a car accident involving two cars is not always as simple as it may seem. As such, trying to figure out who is responsible for damages in a collision involving three or more cars can be incredibly complex. Those injured in multiple vehicle accidents should understand that they are entitled to recover compensation from the negligent party or parties. If this reflects your circumstances, the following blog explores what you must know about these matters and why it’s in your best interest to connect with a Sacramento auto accident lawyer who can represent you in the fight to recover compensation.
How Do Multiple Vehicle Accidents Happen?
Accidents involving three or more cars are often the result of a chain reaction, most often occur as the result of rear-end collisions. When someone is struck from behind, it can propel them forward into the back of the vehicle in front of them, creating a chain reaction of accidents.
However, a multiple-vehicle accident can also occur in the event two drivers collide, and the vehicle that was struck is pushed into a different lane of traffic, resulting in other cars striking the vehicle.
These accidents can occur as the result of reckless, distracted, or drunk driving. However, other factors, like narrow lanes, can also contribute to multiple vehicle accidents.
How Is Fault Determined?
Determining liability during these accidents can be incredibly difficult due to the number of vehicles involved and conflicting stories of the drivers at the scene. As such, it’s important to take the necessary measures to protect yourself if you are a victim in these matters.
Generally, you’ll want to gather evidence at the accident scene. This includes taking photos and videos, collecting the contact information of witnesses, and speaking to nearby homeowners or businesses to see if they captured footage of the accident on a security camera.
Next, you should connect with an experienced personal injury attorney who can examine the evidence collected, review the preliminary accident investigation conducted by police, and speak with industry experts to determine how the accident happened and which party or parties should be held liable for the damages you’ve endured.
It’s important to understand that in personal injury cases that go to trial, the burden of proof is much lower than in other kinds of legal cases. As such, you must meet the “preponderance of the evidence” burden, which simply means that you must show that your events are more likely to have occurred than not.
As you can see, these matters can be incredibly complex. That’s why it’s imperative to connect with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible to explore your legal options during these matters. Unfortunately, if you try to navigate this own your own, the outcome of your case may be less than favorable. Luckily, the team at the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes is here to assist you. We understand how complicated these matters can be, which is why we are dedicated to fighting for you. Contact us today to learn more.