Founding Partner
A crash involving more than two vehicles can be chaotic, both on the road and afterward. The scene often looks like a chain reaction, with one impact triggering another in rapid succession. Determining who is at fault is rarely simple, but it’s a critical step in ensuring that injured drivers and passengers receive the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about multi-vehicle crashes and how a skilled car accident attorney can help.
Why Are Multi-Vehicle Collisions Different?
In a typical two-car accident, investigators look at the actions of each driver leading up to the crash. In a multi-vehicle accident, there may be three, four, or more drivers, each with their version of events. Add in factors such as road conditions, vehicle defects, or hazardous weather, and the picture becomes even more complicated.
Because responsibility may be divided among several people, the investigation has to consider how each driver’s actions contributed to the series of collisions. One driver might be primarily responsible, while others may share partial fault.
Steps Investigators Take
1. Examining the Scene
Police and accident reconstruction experts will study the scene for skid marks, vehicle positions, and debris patterns. These details can reveal how fast vehicles were going, where they were positioned, and how the impacts occurred.
2. Reviewing Vehicle Damage
The type and location of damage on each vehicle can help show the order of collisions. For example, a car with rear-end damage only may have been stopped when another vehicle pushed it forward.
3. Gathering Witness Statements
Bystanders, passengers, and other drivers may have seen parts of the collision from different angles. Their accounts can help fill in gaps and confirm or challenge other evidence.
4. Checking Camera Footage
Traffic cameras, dashcams, and security systems from nearby businesses can capture valuable footage. In many cases, video evidence is one of the most reliable ways to piece together what happened.
5. Considering Environmental Factors
Weather, visibility, and road conditions are all factors to consider. A sudden downpour, icy pavement, or blinding sun glare can influence how fault is assigned.
Common Scenarios and Fault Allocation
- Chain-Reaction Rear-Ends – If a driver fails to stop in time and hits the car ahead, causing that vehicle to strike another, the first driver is often considered primarily at fault. But if a driver in the middle was following too closely, they could also share blame.
- Intersection Pile-Ups – When one driver runs a red light or stop sign, they may cause multiple side-impact crashes. Others might be partially responsible if they were speeding or distracted.
- Weather-Related Collisions – Even in bad weather, drivers are expected to adjust speed and following distance. A driver who loses control because they were going too fast for conditions may be found liable.
- Mixed Fault Situations – Sometimes, two or more drivers commit separate mistakes that combine to cause the crash. For example, one might change lanes without signaling while another is distracted by their phone.
What Is Comparative Negligence?
Maryland is one of the few states that follows a contributory negligence rule. This means that if you are found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages. For victims of multi-vehicle accidents, determining fault becomes even more critical—insurance companies often seek any reason to assign some portion of blame.
Because of this, it’s essential to have strong evidence showing you did not contribute to the collision in any way.
Steps to Take After a Multi-Vehicle Crash
- Document the Scene – If you’re able, take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain Witness Information – Collect names and contact details from anyone who witnessed the incident.
- Seek Medical Care – Even if you feel fine, consult a doctor to document any potential injuries.
- Avoid Admitting Fault – Let investigators and your attorney review the evidence before making any statements to insurers.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
With multiple drivers, insurance companies, and legal teams involved, determining fault can be a complex and overwhelming process. An attorney can coordinate the investigation, preserve key evidence, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you’ve been injured in a multi-vehicle collision in Maryland, McGowan & Cecil, LLC has the experience and resources to stand up to insurance companies and protect your rights. We understand the challenges of contributory negligence and know what it takes to secure the compensation our clients deserve. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.