How to Determine Fault in a Multi-Vehicle Crash in Mentor?

There are times when multi-vehicle accidents “just happen,” but most commonly, that is not the case.

If an animal jumps into traffic or you suddenly experience white-out conditions, you may have an accident, no matter how careful you are.

However, in most accidents, at least one driver’s negligence begins the pile-up (often more than one).

This is why you must have a Mentor car accident lawyer who is well-versed in investigating multi-car accidents.

There are many ways a negligent driver may cause these devastating incidents, such as;

• Driving while distracted – The driver is distracted and doesn’t see vehicles stopped or an accident ahead. So, there is no time to change lanes or avoid colliding with other cars.
• Following you too closely or “tailgating” – If you’re being followed too closely, the driver behind you would be unable to stop or turn to avoid hitting you. High highway speeds usually result in a “domino effect,” and numerous vehicles pile on.
• Speeding – Some drivers speed or drive too fast for current weather conditions and cannot evade a collision that occurs in their path. This is a common cause when visibility is low due to heavy rain, fog, or snow.

So, in most cases, there are reasons for multi-car accidents, and using a thorough, detail-oriented, and experienced car accident lawyer is mandatory to receive the total compensation you are due.

Emotions can be extremely high after a multi-car accident; Drivers point fingers at each other, make accusations, and attempt to point out blame.

However, if you’re a victim and need compensation, fault must be proven that points to careless conduct that amounts to negligence.

Just some of the ways your lawyer may prove fault are;

• Using official police reports – This document is a significant factor in determining fault for the insurance companies and more. The authorities are usually the first on the scene, impartial, and trained to analyze and give a solid, reasonable account of what occurred.
• Analyzing the damage to all the vehicles – Carefully analyzing the damage to the vehicles usually results in a trail of evidence that points to the initial cause of the pile-up. For example, if you’re hit from behind, the driver who hits you is usually always at fault. Additionally, a driver turning left across traffic lanes is commonly at fault. If the turn is unsafe, the driver should not attempt it; if they do turn and cause a collision, this is widely considered negligence.

These are just a few of the ways in which fault can be proven.

Still, your diligent, experienced multi-car accident lawyer will work tirelessly to establish what occurred and obtain the compensation you need and deserve.

Usually, one or more drivers will be responsible for a multi-vehicle accident.

But yes, in singular cases, third-party non-drivers could share or be wholly responsible.

Some examples of these instances include;

• Whoever designed or maintained the roadway – If faulty road design contributed to the crash, such as an unmarked blind curve that prevented you from seeing stopped traffic or an accident up ahead.
• Road maintenance crews working with inadequate signage or warning – Work crews didn’t provide adequate warning or preventative signage, which led to a pile-up.
• A manufacturer of a faulty vehicle component – For example, a faulty automatic braking system that engages without reason or fails to operate correctly on the interstate. This could lead to a chain reaction of rear-end collisions.

Many road conditions could have contributed to or caused your multi-car accident, and your Mentor car accident lawyer will always look for hazards and thoroughly investigate the scene.

Multi-vehicle accidents in Ohio always present unique legal challenges when providing fault and assessing liability.

In these harrowing cases, having a knowledgeable, experienced, multi-vehicle accident lawyer on your side is always prudent and wise.

The Mentor-based Piscitelli Law Firm has a long and successful history of representing Ohio residents in car and multi-vehicle accidents.

They will provide you with the personal, tireless legal help you need now in your and your family’s lives.

Call them today at (216) 820-9832 for a free case evaluation.

They will protect your rights and do whatever is necessary to pursue the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.