Navigating A Multi-Vehicle Accident Claim
Posted on: 11 September 2019
An automobile accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially difficult. However, an automobile accident involving multiple vehicles can be even more overwhelming. Managing after an accident involving just you and another vehicle can be stressful enough, but navigating the process of filing claims if multiple vehicles were involved requires even more professional care. With this guide, you will understand multiple vehicle accidents and the process of filing claims for damages or injuries.
The 411 on Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Obviously, you will know if you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident because multiple vehicles will have been involved. Of course, you may not realize why or how the accident occurred.
Speeding is a common cause of all types of automobile accidents, but it is also a common reason why multi-vehicle accidents occur. If a driver is speeding, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting a vehicle in the rear, which could lead to a chain reaction of multiple vehicles involved in accidents.
Distracted driving, which may involve texting, talking on the phone, or even playing with the radio or eating, can also lead to multiple vehicle accidents.
Accidents involving multiple vehicles may also occur in different weather conditions. For example, if the roads are slippery and wet from rain, sleet, snow, or ice, one or more vehicles may not be able to stop or maneuver their vehicles to avoid others on the road.
If one driver is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may hit another vehicle, causing a multi-vehicle accident, as well.
Unfortunately, there are many scenarios that can lead to an accident involving multiple vehicles. If you are one of these vehicles, knowing what to do is essential.
Handling a Multi-Vehicle Accident
If and when you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident, it is important to remain calm. Make sure to contact emergency services even if you feel physically fine. Since many injuries, such as whiplash or even internal bleeding, are not known to show signs immediately, a medical evaluation is imperative to reduce the risk of severe or life-threatening injuries.
Once all potential medical issues have been addressed, you can work with the authorities to make an accident report. This report will be used by your lawyer to determine fault and ensure your accident claim is filed effectively and efficiently.
If you have a phone or camera, take pictures of the accident scene for your own record keeping. You and the emergency authorities can also talk to witnesses about what they believe caused the accident. Ask the police for copies of the accident reports and witness accounts, which will be helpful in building your case.
In chain reaction accidents, which involve one vehicle hitting another which hits another throughout a pattern, you will need to prove negligence when filing a claim. The police reports will help you determine if the driver who caused the chain reaction was speeding, driving at a safe distance, or driving under the influence.
You should also contact an attorney like David Helfand PA right away. Working with an attorney will help you build a case that is effective, ensuring you receive the right amount of compensation for any damage to your vehicle, injuries, and time and income lost at work.
Before the consultation with the attorney, gather all the essential documents and reports, including estimates for vehicle repairs and any medical bills that were caused by the accident. Your attorney will need these documents to prove how much compensation you deserve.
Help is available if you were involved in a multi-vehicle accident. This guide will ensure you understand and are able to navigate the process of filing a claim in these difficult accidents.
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