Several vehicles collided Thursday afternoon, December 13, 2018, sending several to the hospital. Police dispatchers say that at least three vehicles collided injuring some of the motorists prompting officials to call ambulances and a helicopter transport to the scene.
Traffic was shut down both directions at the injured were treated prepared for medical transportation to a local hospital. Police had no word on the condition of the injured.
When Multiple Cars Collide
When an accident involves several cars, certain dynamics occur that create unique problems for all involved. First, depending on the type of collision, those involved are often at risk of being struck again. In crashes on major highways or freeways, there is a real danger of cars slamming into those either already involved in the collision or those stopping because of the crash.
According to experts, if you are involved in a crash where there is a danger of being struck by approaching vehicles, the best thing to do is to stay in your vehicle. However, they also say that if there is an overriding need to get out—such as a fire—then it’s of course best to exit the vehicle. However, in other situations, it is best to stay in the car with your seatbelt on as your vehicle offers more protection than being directly struck by approaching vehicles.
First responders also have unique problems as the scene is often chaotic with cars and debris scattered throughout the road. The first order of business is to prevent further collisions by putting flares are warning devices on the roadway, and then tending to those with the most urgent medical needs.
How is Fault Determined?
Determining fault is a secondary concern when there are injured people to treat. However, eventually, fault will become an issue as the inured are left to face often overwhelming financial losses. Thus in most multi-vehicle crashes, investigators are called to the scene to try to determine what happened. They will eventually issue a report which can be used by insurance companies and the courts to determine who was at fault.
In multi-vehicle crashes, fault is often assigned to several people as each person might be a victim and partial cause of the crash. Especially in pile-up crashes where some motorists will be at-fault for hitting the car in front of them and then be a victim of the car that hit them. Thus fault is often shared between several drivers, and some insurance companies will try to point the finger at others to avoid having to pay on behalf of their insured.
Do I Need an Attorney?
It’s up to each injured person whether they get an attorney. However, in multi-car wrecks, there are typically several insurance companies covering the many vehicles, and each one is going to point the finger at the other where liability is concerned.
You need an attorney on your side that is experienced in the law and in dealing with insurance companies and their high-priced defense attorneys. Call the attorneys at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, and they will stand behind you to make sure that you are treated fairly and that you get the highest compensation allowed by the law.
When you call Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, at 800 937-8443, you will immediately speak to a member of the legal team and not a message machine. You can also Live Chat with an expert who can immediately began helping you with your claim.
