Who’s Liable in a Multi-Vehicle Accident? Understanding Shared Fault
When multiple vehicles are involved in a single collision, determining liability becomes more complex. These chain-reaction crashes often lead to finger-pointing between drivers, each claiming the other is at fault. For injury victims, the confusion can delay much-needed compensation and increase the stress of an already difficult situation.
At The Sharma Law Office, we represent individuals in Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, and New Jersey who have been injured in multi-vehicle crashes. We understand how liability works in these cases and can help determine which drivers or parties may be held responsible.
How Fault Is Assigned in Multi-Car Accidents
Liability in a multi-vehicle collision is based on negligence. Each driver has a duty to act with reasonable care and caution. When that duty is breached, such as by speeding, following too closely, or running a red light, and a crash occurs, the at-fault driver may be held responsible.
In a chain-reaction crash, several drivers may be found negligent. For example, one driver may have caused the initial impact, but others may have contributed to the collision’s severity due to distraction or reckless behavior. Each party’s percentage of fault plays a role in determining the amount of compensation.
Pennsylvania uses a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing recovery if a person is 50 percent or less at fault. New Jersey uses a similar rule, but the threshold is 51 percent.
What Evidence Is Used to Determine Fault?
Assigning liability in these collisions requires detailed evidence. The following types are often reviewed:
- Police crash reports
- Dashcam or traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Photos of the scene and vehicle damage
- Vehicle black box data
- Expert reconstruction reports
The Sharma Law Office helps gather and evaluate this evidence to support your claim. For more on how our personal injury lawyer team builds strong cases, visit our About Us page.
Dealing With Insurance in Multi-Vehicle Claims
When more than one driver is involved, so are multiple insurance companies. Each insurer may attempt to shift blame or minimize its policyholder’s role in the crash. These disputes can lead to delays or reduced settlement offers.
Our firm deals directly with insurers on behalf of clients. We work to identify all applicable coverage, including liability, underinsured motorist, and umbrella policies. We also ensure that the fault is allocated fairly and not exaggerated to reduce your compensation.
Learn more about how we assist accident victims by viewing our Practice Areas.
Other Potentially Liable Parties
In some cases, drivers are not the only ones who may be held responsible. Third-party liability can arise in situations such as:
- Defective vehicle components contributed to the crash
- Poor road design or maintenance
- Commercial carriers failing to train or supervise drivers properly
These claims require careful investigation. Our firm thoroughly reviews each case to identify all parties that may share liability, especially in high-impact collisions involving serious injuries.
What to Do After a Multi-Car Accident
If you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident, your actions at the scene and afterward matter. Here are a few critical steps:
- Call emergency services and request a police report.
- Photograph the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries.
- Get names, contact details, and insurance information from all drivers involved.
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if symptoms are mild.
- Consult with a car accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance adjuster.
Accurate and early documentation can make a significant difference in how liability is assessed. Our legal team is prepared to help clients preserve key evidence from day one. Consulting with an auto accident attorney early on can help ensure that your rights are protected before you deal with insurers or other parties.
We Help You Pursue Fair Compensation
Injuries from a multi-vehicle crash can affect your ability to work, drive, and care for yourself or your family. We assist with claims for medical expenses, lost wages, future care, and pain and suffering. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights throughout the process.
Attorney Deepak Sharma brings years of experience to each case and is highly rated for client advocacy. View his profile on Avvo for more about his background.
Practical Guidance for Complex Collisions
A multi-car accident is not only disruptive but can leave you struggling with medical costs, insurance delays, and uncertainty about your legal rights. At The Sharma Law Office, we help injury victims in Pennsylvania and New Jersey pursue compensation when several drivers may be at fault. Our team is thorough, client-focused, and results-driven. Contact us today to get started with a consultation and let our firm advocate for the compensation you deserve.