Many severe car accidents involve more than two vehicles. These accidents generally occur when two cars collide, causing a chain reaction of subsequent wrecks. Multi-car pile-ups on the highway are a great example of multiple-vehicle accidents.
When numerous cars are involved in an accident the investigation and determination of liability from resulting insurance claims is more difficult.
Determining Liability
Liability in collisions involving more than two vehicles requires a more complex analysis than what is involved in other car accidents. Rather than one party bearing all the fault for the accident, it is common for drivers to be appropriated percentages of liability.
When drivers share responsibility for a collision Texas law establishes modified comparative negligence as the rule to guide what plaintiffs can recover. In circumstances where plaintiffs are partially responsible for their injury they may sue for damages, but their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault for the accident. However, it is important to know that, unlike in some jurisdictions, plaintiffs who bear more than fifty percent fault for an accident are barred from recovering any damages.
Because establishing liability in multiple-vehicle accidents is more difficult, it generally requires a thorough investigation by numerous insurance companies and attorneys.
The complexity and fact-specific nature of each claim means individuals injured in these accidents should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure their interests are represented and rights protected.
Furthermore, by hiring an attorney, injured parties can be sure their claims are fully investigated and that they pursue legal action against relevant defendants before Texas’s two-year statute of limitation for personal injury lawsuits prevents them from filing a lawsuit.
Common Causes of Multiple Vehicle Accidents
Multiple vehicle accidents often occur on well-trafficked roads, like highways. While these collisions have many causes, some of the most common are:
- Distracted driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Speeding
- Tailgating and other forms of aggressive driving
What Can I Recover?
Plaintiffs injured in multiple vehicle accidents may seek recovery for pain and suffering, medical bills, psychological distress, lost wages, car repairs resulting from damage to their vehicles, and other costs resulting from the car accident.
Call Shaw Cowart for a Free Consultation
Multiple vehicle accidents are complex. Having a passionate, experienced attorney by your side will ensure your claim receives the thorough investigation that it deserves. This will empower you to fully understand your legal options and make the best decisions to fully recover from your loss.
Shaw Cowart LLP provides legal services to Texans dealing with the devastating effects of a multiple-vehicle accident. We will assist in investing your claim, advocate on your behalf by negotiating with insurance, and clearly explain your legal options.
We understand that personal injuries and property damage from car accidents cause more than pain and hassle. Instead, they bring a cascade of stress, medical bills, car repairs, and lengthy insurance processes. The last thing an injured party should face following a severe accident is the complexity of the legal system.
Contact us today for a free and confidential case evaluation.