If you’ve been involved in a crash with multiple vehicles, you’ll want a car accident injury lawyer. At Surdez & Perez P.C. in Queens, NY, we have years of experience in dealing with complicated road accident cases and can answer all your questions.
How Is Liability Determined in a Multi-Vehicle Crash in New York?
In New York, liability in a multi-vehicle crash (also known as a chain-reaction or pile-up accident) is determined based on the principles of negligence. Each driver involved in the accident may be held liable for their proportionate share of fault based on their actions leading up to the collision. There are usually a number of steps in the process of determining fault in a multi-vehicle crash.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Law enforcement officers conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. They gather evidence from the accident scene, including witness statements, photographs, skid marks, vehicle damage, and any available surveillance or dashcam footage.
Chain of Events
Investigators attempt to reconstruct the chain of events that led to the accident, including the initial cause and subsequent actions of each driver involved. They look at whether any drivers violated traffic laws or failed to follow the rules of the road leading up to the accident. Common examples include speeding, reckless driving, following too closely, failure to yield, distracted driving, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Contributory Negligence
New York follows the doctrine of pure comparative negligence, which means that each driver’s liability is determined based on their percentage of fault for the accident. Even if a driver is partially at fault for the accident, they may still be able to recover damages, although the amount awarded may be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Insurance Coverage and Settlements
Insurance companies will assess the evidence and determine the liability of their insured drivers based on the findings of the investigation. They may negotiate settlements with other parties involved in the accident or defend their insured drivers in lawsuits filed against them.
If liability cannot be resolved through insurance settlements, injured parties may file lawsuits seeking compensation for their injuries and damages. The court will consider the evidence presented by both sides and determine liability based on the facts of the case and applicable law.
How a Car Accident Injury Lawyer in Queens, NY Can Help with Legal Proceedings
Multi-vehicle crashes can lead to complicated legal situations, as there may be multiple claims and lawsuits filed by different parties involved in the accident. Each party may seek compensation from the other drivers they believe to be responsible for the collision. With one of our specialist lawyers on your side, you can be sure that you won’t get blindsided. They will fight your case for you, in whatever area they’re needed.
Determining liability in a multi-vehicle crash involves a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident and an assessment of each driver’s actions and responsibilities. If you’ve been involved in an accident of this type, then get in touch with us at Surdez & Perez P.C. in Queens, NY. Our qualified team will work hard to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
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