Multi-Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Determining who was at fault is the most pressing issue in multi-vehicle accidents. Although chain reaction may have started with a single driver’s negligence, other drivers may have also failed to exercise the requisite duty of care. There are different situations that could arise involving multiple vehicles – one car could be rear-ended and that impact could cause it to hit the car in front and therefore cause a chain reaction of several rear-ended vehicles. Another situation may be two cars colliding and, subsequently, creating a hazard that other vehicles cannot avoid. Similar to the accident described above, a car could cross over a center line and crash into a vehicle, causing that vehicle to hit oncoming traffic or vehicles in other lanes.
The existence of other risk factors makes the determination of who is liable even more complex. For example, adverse weather conditions may contribute to the risk of a crash, and makes it more likely for other vehicles to not see or not be able to stop in time. Additionally, these types of collisions are even more deadly that two-vehicle accidents. Each vehicle that becomes involved means a greater likelihood of catastrophic injury.
Comparative Liability
Because there are multiple parties involved, it can be incredibly difficult to determine exactly who was responsible for causing the accident. The stakes are often high, because the insurance payouts involve multiple vehicles. Investigators have to determine the negligent act and whether there was more than one negligent driver.
South Carolina follows the rule of comparative negligence, which attempt to compensate injured individuals for damages even if he or she were partially at fault. With this rule, injured persons are required to show that the other driver was more than 50% at fault for the accident. If so, then they will be required to compensate the injured parties for their percentage of liability. With the fact-intensive nature of this inquiry into percentage of fault, all factors come into play, including weather conditions, road hazards, other drivers, other vehicles, and the existence of any mitigating factors. Other states follow the contributory negligence rule, which bars anyone who has any fault from receiving compensation.
Multi-vehicle crashes are dangerous accidents that often cause serious injury or even death. Seeking compensation for injuries incurred in a multi-vehicle crash can be a difficult process that requires extensive investigation and analysis. If you or a loved one has been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, the attorneys at Bice Law, LLC can help you pursue your case to recover damages for your injuries. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Bice Law
The personal injury firm of Bice Law will examine your case to determine the type and amount of damages that your injury warrants, including payments for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any permanent disability. We’ll determine whether an out-of-court settlement or trial is the best strategy to obtain maximum benefits for you or your family. If you have suffered injury or harm because of someone else’s actions, take the first step to protect your legal rights – contact the personal injury firm of Bice Law serving both North and South Carolina. You only have a limited time after your injury to file a claim, so act quickly. Call 877-BICE-877 today or submit an online request to get a free consultation with a personal injury attorney. We serve families across both North Carolina and South Carolina.
