Some car crashes lead to very simple determinations of fault and compensation for those affected. When a collision involves two vehicles, it is often easy to analyze the situation and determine who may be responsible.
Collisions can quickly become complicated and more difficult to handle when they involve multiple vehicles. Sometimes, collisions at intersections or on multi-lane highways involve three or more vehicles. Those crashes often require in-depth investigations and may result in complex compensation claims.
What are the rights of those involved in a multi-vehicle crash?
The right to a proper investigation
State law requires that those involved in collisions that lead to injury or significant property damage file a crash report with local authorities. The police officers responding to a multi-vehicle collision should investigate the situation thoroughly.
Not only do they need to collect evidence about the scene of the crash, but they may also need to question the drivers involved and any witnesses who can provide insight into the collision. That investigation can help establish who is at fault, paving the way for compensation claims from the parties who are not responsible for the multi-vehicle collision.
The potential right to seek compensation
Those who are not at fault for a crash typically have the option of filing an insurance claim against the party responsible for the wreck. In a multi-vehicle collision, more than one party may be at fault. There may also be significant damage that may make a lawsuit necessary because an insurance claim may not offer adequate compensation.
Litigation in a multi-vehicle scenario can be a challenge, as the state of Maryland has a pure contributory negligence standard. If the courts determine that the plaintiff is even 1% at fault for the crash, they may not be able to seek compensation via a lawsuit. Regulatory violations like speeding, distraction while driving and failure to maintain an appropriate following distance are all examples of negligence that might prevent motorists from seeking compensation from others.
In scenarios where the plaintiff did not use their seat belt, their failure to properly utilize safety restraints does not constitute negligence that prohibits them from seeking compensation. Drivers and passengers involved in a multi-vehicle crash who are not responsible for the collision may be able to obtain compensation for their property damage losses and any expenses related to injuries, including medical care costs and lost wages.
Those pursuing large insurance claims or wanting to initiate litigation after a multi-vehicle crash also have the right to partner with a lawyer throughout that process so that they can focus on recovering medically instead of worrying about recovering financially. To that end, learning about the rules that apply after multi-vehicle collisions can help drivers assert themselves in scenarios that may otherwise lead to significant financial setbacks. Drivers who were not at fault and their passengers immediately after an accident should contact an attorney experienced in personal injury claims to discuss their rights to compensation for their injuries and losses.
