How Fault Gets Determined in a Multi-vehicle Crash in California
California’s extensive highway systems and heavily trafficked roads are unfortunately conducive to multi-vehicle accidents. These incidents are complex because they involve more than two drivers, making it challenging to establish who was at fault. Nevertheless, the consequences of a multi-car pileup can be severe, with damage ranging from minor vehicular damage to serious injury, or even loss of life. Determining fault in such cases is not only crucial for legal and insurance reasons, but it also ensures that the victims receive the compensation they are entitled to.
See below for a discussion about some of the factors that go into determining who was at fault in a collision involving multiple vehicles. If you or a family member has been hurt in any kind of crash in Los Angeles, Orange County, or throughout Southern California, reach out to Machtinger Law, APC, to review your case with an experienced and dedicated California personal injury lawyer.
California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Law
In the legal sphere, California operates under a ‘pure comparative negligence’ law. Under this rule, a person can still recover damages in a car accident, even if they are partially to blame. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.
In multi-vehicle accidents, multiple parties may share liability. For example, if a driver is found to be 30% at fault in a three-car accident, they could still recover 70% of their damages.
Investigating Fault in Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Investigating multi-vehicle accidents often requires a comprehensive approach, including:
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Police Reports: Law enforcement usually arrives at the scene of a multi-car crash. They will investigate the incident, talk to witnesses, and create a police report. This report often includes a diagram of the accident, statements from those involved, and sometimes an opinion on who was at fault.
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Insurance Company Investigations: Insurance companies conduct their own investigations. They interview their policyholder and other drivers involved, review the damage to all vehicles, analyze medical reports, and sometimes even recreate the accident.
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Private Investigators or Accident Reconstruction Experts: In complex cases, it might be necessary to hire a private investigator or accident reconstruction expert. These professionals can create a detailed analysis of the accident, helping to establish who was at fault.
Legal Assistance in Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Given the complexity of determining fault in multi-vehicle accidents, it’s crucial to enlist professional legal help. Experienced personal injury attorneys, like the team at Machtinger Law, APC, have the expertise to navigate the complicated legal landscape of these incidents.
We work relentlessly to investigate each case, collaborating with accident reconstruction experts when necessary, and negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of our clients. Our goal is to ensure that those affected by such accidents receive the maximum possible compensation for their losses.
Determining fault in multi-vehicle crashes in California is a multifaceted process, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you find yourself involved in a multi-vehicle accident or any serious crash in Southern California, contact Machtinger Law, APC, in Los Angeles for a free consultation. Our dedicated team will stand by your side, providing the guidance and representation you need during this challenging time.
