Filing Claims for Injuries in Multi-Car Accidents

Multi-vehicle accidents, or pile-ups, are often catastrophic since each car may suffer multiple hits from various directions. These collisions are likely to happen under poor road visibility and conditions. If you suffered injuries in such a crash, talk to a multi-car accident lawyer right away for guidance on your next steps.

Establishing Fault in Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Collisions involving three or more vehicles happen in different scenarios, such as when a car stops too suddenly and creates a “domino effect” of rear-end collisions. Several cars may also crash at an intersection when a driver fails to give right of way.

In these situations, it may be difficult to determine who caused the accident. Moreover, insurance companies tend to shift blame to avoid compensating victims.

As a rule, the driver whose actions started the chain of events that led to the accident is responsible. However, two or more drivers may share fault. For example, the investigation may assign 60% of the fault to Driver A for speeding and 40% to Driver B for failing to keep a safe distance.

Important Evidence in Multi-Car Collisions

It’s hard to overestimate the roles of police reports in multi-vehicle accident claims. A clear, well-written accident report can help confirm traffic violations and unsafe driving behavior.

Other evidence, like photos, dash cam footage, witness statements, and medical records, can help you resolve your claim successfully. In especially complex cases, your multi-car accident lawyer may recommend working with an accident reconstructionist to determine fault.

How Insurance Coverage Limits May Impact Your Claim

Car accident claims in Florida work on a no-fault basis, meaning you’ll first turn to your PIP benefits to cover medical costs and a part of your lost wages. However, PIP coverage likely won’t be enough after a serious injury, so you’ll file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.

Auto insurance policies have a per-accident limit, meaning that if one driver caused an accident in which several people suffered injuries, the amount of coverage splits between the victims. What if the at-fault driver’s policy isn’t enough to compensate you for your losses?

In this situation, you can use your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or MedPay if you have it. You may also consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible driver. Finally, your multi-car accident lawyer could check whether other parties, like vehicle manufacturers or municipalities, may share liability for your injuries.

Protecting Your Rights After a Multi-Car Accident

Take these steps immediately after a multi-vehicle collision to improve your chances of claiming fair compensation:

Call 911 and report the accident. If possible, wait for the police officers on the scene. Don’t forget to source a copy of the police report later.
Collect evidence, such as photos, videos, and witness contact information. Exchange contact and insurance details with all motorists who were involved in the accident.
Seek medical care. Do this before anything in case of a serious injury. Follow your treatment plan, and save all medical documentation.
Call your insurance company and let them know you were in an accident.
Talk to a local car accident lawyer and begin the proper legal steps toward claiming compensation.

Injured in a Multi-Vehicle Accident? Call Warner & Fitzmartin, PLLC

Did you suffer injuries in a multi-car collision in Palm Beach County? Call us at Warner & Fitzmartin to talk to an experienced car accident lawyer. Our skilled attorneys will help you determine fault, calculate your losses, and guide you through the insurance claim process.