We hear from clients all the time: “I was in a multi-car crash. What do I do?” We recommend seeking medical care, keeping track of your losses, and following through with treatment.
We also suggest seeking legal aid. An attorney can protect your rights from aggressive insurance companies and the people they represent.
What Is a Multi-Car Accident?
A multi-car accident involves more than two vehicles. These accidents sometimes occur through a chain reaction.
Here is a common scenario: one vehicle rear-ends another, then the rear-ended vehicle strikes the vehicle in front of it. Another example is a vehicle running a red light and striking another car in an intersection. Other vehicles moving toward the intersection may also collide, causing several individual crashes.
Multi-car accidents are particularly dangerous, as a single victim may experience multiple impacts. This can cause serious injuries and even death.
Does It Matter That I Was in a Multi-Car Crash? What does That Mean for Me?
Multi-car accidents are unique in several ways because they:
- Involve multiple at-fault parties
- Involve more than two insurance companies
- Involve more facts, evidence, and “moving parts” than two-car accidents
When two cars collide, there are generally two motorists involved. However, when multiple cars collide, determining liability is more complicated; there are more variables to consider.
In short: yes, it is significant that you were in a multi-car accident. Resolving your case could take more time and effort than more cut-and-dry accidents. A lawyer may spare you significant time, expense, and stress by handling your case.
For a free legal consultation, call 404-214-2001
How do You Determine Fault for a Multi-Car Crash?
When determining fault for a multi-car crash, you must identify the original act of negligence. A negligent act can include:
- Rear-ending another vehicle
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Merging lanes dangerously
- Failing to yield
The facts of your accident are necessary to determine liability. Your lawyer will generally focus on the first crash in a multi-crash accident. The motorist liable for the first crash may also be liable for subsequent ones. There are, however, exceptions. Every situation is different.
Is It Difficult to Determine Liability for Multi-Car Accidents?
It can be. Determining liability may be complicated by:
- The sheer number of parties involved in the accident
- Accusations of fault between motorists
- The disorienting effect of a multi-car collision
- Multiple insurance companies with unique motivations
An attorney familiar with multi-car accidents will establish liability for yours. To establish another motorist’s fault, your lawyer may use:
- Witness accounts: Witnesses may testify that another motorist struck your vehicle and started the chain reaction that led to the multi-car crash.
- Accident reports: Your lawyer will obtain a report from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). This report may contain trustworthy accounts of your accident.
- Accident reconstruction specialists’ statements: An expert may reconstruct your accident using evidence, witness accounts, and software. This gives unique insight into who (or what) caused your accident.
- Video evidence: Video footage is one of the most compelling types of evidence. A video may show precisely how your accident happened and who is at fault.
- Your medical records. Your medical records will show that you suffered harm in the collision. They will also illustrate the treatment you required to reach maximum medical improvement.
A lawyer can combine these resources to determine liability. From there, they can seek the compensation you’re owed.
How do You Choose a Lawyer for a Multi-Car Accident Case?
You may be unsure of what to do after a multi-car crash. To save yourself time and energy, you can hire a lawyer who already knows. You should consider hiring a lawyer who:
- Has represented victims of multi-car collisions
- Manages car accident cases
- Has successful case results for clients like you
- Provides satisfactory answers to your questions
- Has a clear plan for your case
Your lawyer will handle every aspect of your case. You may participate in an initial meeting, but your lawyer will handle the rest of your legal obligations.
What does a Lawyer Do for Accident Victims Like You?
An attorney will champion your rights, rebuff unwanted contact by insurers and attorneys, and help you get medical care. Your attorney will also seek compensation by:
- Gathering evidence
- Consulting your doctors
- Recording all of your losses
- Calculating your damages
- Explaining your case’s strategy
- Filing your claim or lawsuit
- Communicating with insurance companies and the other party’s lawyers
- Negotiating a settlement
Your lawyer’s goal is to recover compensation for your injury-related losses.
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You Can Seek Compensation for the Full Scope of Your Losses
Damages are personal to each accident victim. Your lawyer will determine your recoverable losses upon meeting with you and your doctors. Your recoverable damages may include:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Lost income
- Diminished earning power
- Pain and suffering
- Counseling, medications, and other treatment
- The loss of a loved one
Georgia motorists must have liability insurance, per the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire (OCI). Per O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33, you may recover compensation even if you’re partially liable for your accident. A lawsuit may also be an option for you.
Your lawyer will review your case and determine how to seek compensation.
How Long do You Have to Hire a Lawyer?
There is no time limit on hiring a lawyer. There is a time limit for filing your case, though. O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33 generally provides a two-year window for filing a personal injury lawsuit. The same deadline applies to most wrongful death cases.
Some cases receive extensions to these statutes of limitations. Regardless of any extension, it is crucial that you consider legal aid as soon as possible.
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Call Kaine Law Today to Start Your Case
We offer a No-Fee Guarantee, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call Kaine Law today at (404) 214-2001 for your free consultation. Our team will answer your questions and explain your legal options.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
