Who Is Responsible for a Chain Reaction Car Accident?
Generally speaking, the first driver to hit another vehicle or pedestrian is at fault in a chain reaction car accident. However, there are instances in which another driver, pedestrian, government agency, and/or vehicle parts manufacturer could have contributed to the crash. Identifying the negligent parties in these cases requires various pieces of evidence, which can be difficult to track down and collect on your own.
That’s where a car accident attorney can step in. If you hire the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato to take your case, we will handle all the work while you recuperate. Begin your free consultation when you call us at (954) 633-8270.
Parties Who Could Be At Fault in a Chain Reaction Car Accident
A chain reaction car accident occurs when three or more vehicles hit each other. Usually, the driver to first hit another bears fault for the accident. However, that’s not always the case. The following could have caused or at least contributed to the crash:
- Another driver. Let’s say three motorists drove behind each other on the highway, and the one in front stopped suddenly. The two rear cars might not have had enough time to brake and ended up crashing into each other. In this case, the driver of the first car would take most, if not all, of the blame for the accident.
- A pedestrian. If a pedestrian jaywalks across the street, a driver might swerve to avoid hitting them. Instead, they could hit the other cars in the next lane.
- A government agency. Faulty stop lights or traffic signals happen every once in a while. It’s the city’s job to fix them right away or at least warn the road users. However, they might not do either of those things. In that event, cars could collide at an intersection if they’re not given the proper signals to cross.
- A vehicle parts manufacturer or mechanic. A mechanic could have installed faulty brakes or failed to identify broken brakes in someone’s car. While on the road, the driver might intend to stop but can’t, resulting in a chain reaction car accident.
If more than one party caused the chain reaction car accident, a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can seek compensation based on their involvement.
How to Determine Who Caused a Chain Reaction Car Accident
You must find and analyze evidence to learn who caused your multiple-car accident. While recovering from serious injuries, this can get difficult. When you work with our team, we can investigate your collision and use the following information to supplement your case:
- The police report
- City maintenance records
- Your medical records
- Photographs of the crash scene
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Traffic camera surveillance
- Traffic citations
You Must Assert That Another Party Acted Negligently
To recover damages through a claim or lawsuit, you must assert how another party’s negligence caused your collision. Proving negligence requires showing:
- Duty of care. The at-fault party had an obligation to act with reasonable care to avoid harming others.
- Breach of duty. This party failed to act as a reasonable person would under the same circumstances and violated their duty of care.
- Causation. This failure to act with care and prudence resulted in a chain reaction car accident, as well as your injuries.
- Damages: You have undergone financial, emotional, and physical harm. Damages in these cases can include pain and suffering, lost income, property damage costs, and medical bills.
You must prove that each of these elements applies to your case. Otherwise, you could have a hard time recovering compensation.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Chain Reaction Car Accident?
Whether you hire a Miami car accident lawyer is your decision. However, you could greatly benefit from one, as they can take on these responsibilities for you:
- Compiling and analyzing evidence
- Establishing the negligent parties
- Quantifying all of your damages
- Dealing with all case-related communications
- Fighting for a fair settlement during negotiations
- Taking your case to trial, if necessary
Working out a case requires time, and each day makes a huge difference in its outcome. According to Florida Statutes § 95.11, you must generally sue the other party for personal injury within four years of the accident. You have even less time––only two years––to file a wrongful death lawsuit if your loved one passed away from their accident injuries. Should you not comply with the appropriate deadline, you essentially forfeit your right to compensation.
Given adequate notice, our Florida accident attorneys can ensure you file suit on time.
Consult Our Car Accident Attorneys for Legal Help
Chain reaction car accidents are already overwhelming. Don’t make matters worse by tackling the claims and legal system when you’re in pain and recovering. A Florida car accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato can take the reins and help ensure each at-fault party is held accountable for their negligence. Get in touch with us today at (954) 633-8270 for a free consultation.
