What To Do If You Are Involved In a Multi-Vehicle Car Accident
After a car accident that involves just one or two vehicles, it’s typically fairly easy to determine which driver was primarily at fault. The party who is at least 51% responsible for the crash is liable for the damages of the other driver.
After a crash involving multiple people, determining fault can be more complicated. The factors and circumstances are frequently more complex, making it more difficult to prove fault and sue for damages. Each driver may have their version of what happened. Law enforcement officers, insurance adjusters, and attorneys will need to spend more time examining the facts of the situation to prove who was liable for everyone’s damages. In many cases, more than one driver is at fault or violated traffic laws at the same time.
Because of the complexity of multiple vehicle accidents, it’s crucial to retain an experienced Nevada car accident lawyer who will help you obtain the financial compensation you need.
How Is Fault Determined in Multiple Vehicle Accidents in Nevada?
In the state of Nevada, the driver who is deemed primarily at fault for the accident is liable for the damages of the other drivers. This is typically established by proving that the driver was negligent, which can include being distracted, violating traffic laws, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and many other circumstances.
Nevada adheres to the law of modified comparative negligence, which means that each driver is responsible for the damages in proportion to their percentage of responsibility for the collision. Comparative negligence can help establish liability after a collision where multiple drivers were involved and more than one party was at fault.
Because each driver’s ability to seek financial compensation is also limited by their percentage of contribution to the accident, it’s essential to be represented by an experienced Las Vegas drunk car accident attorney who will carefully investigate the situation, work to identify whose negligence caused your injuries, and represent you throughout the entire claim process.
When Will I Get Compensation For My Nevada Car Accident?
If you are injured in a car accident in Nevada, you are entitled to recover financial compensation for the value of your damages. Unfortunately, insurance companies work hard to avoid paying you full compensation with lowball offers and may pressure victims to accept settlements prematurely.
Your Las Vegas personal injury attorney will fight for full compensation for all of your damages, which can include:
- Damage to your vehicle
- Medical costs, which may include emergency room services, ambulance fees, surgeries, medications, mental health counseling, and physical therapy
- Anticipated future medical needs due to your injuries
- Anticipated care needs if your injuries prevent you from completing daily tasks
- Lost wages
- Anticipated lost wages if you are unable to work temporarily or permanently due to your injuries
- Short- and long-term disability
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement, wrongful death, loss of quality of life
It can take months or longer to fully understand the extent of damages and injuries after a car accident, so don’t succumb to pressure to accept a settlement right away. Be patient; let your attorney analyze the situation and work with insurance adjusters on your behalf to win the maximum settlement for your full damages.
What If I Am Partially At Fault For The Multiple Vehicle Accident?
After an investigation of your multiple-vehicle accident, there is a possibility that you’ll be assigned a portion of the fault. If this happens, your Las Vegas car accident lawyer will guide you on how to proceed. Under Nevada’s modified comparative negligence law, you may still be able to recover a portion of compensation from other drivers’ insurance companies. This will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you’ll likely still be able to recover some damages to pay for your expenses. Your attorney will work on your behalf to find accurate facts about the accident, such as witness testimony, video surveillance, truck driver records, cell phone records, BAC testing results, and much more, to minimize your liability for the collision.
What Should I Do After A Multiple Vehicle Accident?
Vehicle accidents happen every day in Las Vegas. Many of these are minor fender benders, while others result in serious injuries. Multiple vehicle accidents frequently lead to severe injuries and even deaths. If you’ve been injured in a multiple-vehicle accident in Las Vegas, follow these steps:
- Remove your vehicle from traffic, if possible
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Call law enforcement right away
- Request an ambulance so everyone involved gets the medical care they need
- Do not apologize or admit fault
- Take pictures of the scene, including each vehicle, if possible
- Get witness contact information if you are able
- Gather insurance and contact information from all involved drivers
- Contact an experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer for guidance
Consult with a Leading Car Accident Lawyer In Las Vegas
If you’ve been injured in a multiple-vehicle accident in Las Vegas, get in touch with Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC. We are the leading personal injury firm in Las Vegas with extensive experience in all types of car accidents. As your attorneys, we will work tirelessly on your behalf to obtain maximum compensation so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Don’t face the aftermath of a car accident alone; we are ready to manage your case with compassion and attention to detail. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation!