Being involved in any kind of car wreck is a traumatic experience, but this situation becomes undeniably more complex if you’re dealing with a multi-car pileup. One of the most difficult aspects of these cases is that it can be difficult to determine fault so that you know who to name as defendants in a personal injury claim.
There are many factors that are involved in determining fault for a multi-car crash. In many cases, crash reconstruction experts are called in to help with this undertaking. Understanding how fault is determined and how fault determinations can impact a personal injury claim can be beneficial if you’re a victim of a multi-care pileup.
How is fault determined?
In a multi-car pileup, determining fault usually requires investigating the sequence of events that led up to a plaintiff’s vehicle being struck. Determining who has incurred liability for the crash can sometimes come down to what’s noted in police reports, witness statements and other evidence.
In many cases, the driver who initiated the primary crash is the one who’s considered at fault. There are also instances in which multiple drivers and/or third parties might also share responsibility for a wreck.
A number of factors, such as tailgating, speeding or failing to react appropriately while driving may play a role in who’s fault. If multiple drivers share fault for your recent crash, they may all be held liable in court for the financial damages you’re claiming as a result of your harm.
How can fault affect a vehicle accident claim in Maryland?
Maryland follows contributory negligence law. This means that if you’re found to be at fault at all for the collision, you will not be able to collect damages in a lawsuit. If you think the other driver was 100% at fault for the accident, you should speak with a lawyer who can investigate the claim and determine liability.
Multi-car pileup personal injury claims can be complex, so it’s beneficial to have the assistance of a legal representative to help protect your rights. If you are entitled to damages under Maryland law, you need an experienced attorney to take swift action because of the state’s statute of limitations.
