Multi-Vehicle Collisions

Commonly known as a pile-up, multi-vehicle collisions is the one type of auto accident that’s the most likely to make national headlines, not to mention cause major roadways to be closed for hours, or even days in some cases. A 40-car pile-up on I-25 south of Denver is a recent example of this “chain-reaction” type accident.

Here in Colorado, pile-ups are most prevalent during the fall and winter months when snow and icy conditions reduce visibility to almost zero.

In general, a multi-vehicle collision, or pile-up, occurs when cars are unable to respond quickly enough to another car or truck stopped in front of them. This creates a chain-effect, which can quickly escalate if the conditions are right.

A majority of multi-vehicle collisions are, in fact, relatively minor fender benders that occur at intersections. Despite causing only minor vehicle damage, whiplash car accidents involving more than one vehicle can occur at any speed and often lead to a longer, more painful recovery.

But if a pile-up occurs on a major highway, they can be especially deadly since it can be difficult for drivers and passengers to escape. Even if you’re able to get out of your car, there is the elevated risk of being hit by another car on the outside. This risk is compounded even further when big-rig trucks are involved.

While many multi-vehicle collisions can ultimately be blamed on poor visibility and weather conditions, many others can be more directly linked to negligence, be it a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or one who was simply not paying attention to the road in front of them.

Regardless of the severity of a multi-vehicle collision, or what ultimately caused it, it can be terribly difficult to establish fault

In cases of multiple vehicle collisions, drivers and insurance companies will often deflect blame. It’s not uncommon for there to be several stories floating around, and lots of finger pointing in a pile-up situation.

Often times, several different drivers may end up sharing the blame, or fault for the accident.

One method of establishing fault in a 3-car accident involves asking the front vehicle how many impacts they felt. If they only felt one, then the rear vehicle is likely responsible. If the front vehicle felt 2 impacts, then the middle vehicle is most likely responsible.

In the end, you must be able to establish comparative negligence in order for you to file a claim with another driver’s insurance company

Situations like this create very complex claims, ones that can be awfully difficult for you to handle on your own. Hiring an attorney who specializes in multi-vehicle collisions can allow you to focus more on your health and recovery from your injuries, rather than fighting with different insurance companies at the same time.

Denver car accident attorney(s) R. Mack Babcock and associates can assist you in establishing who is responsible for a multi-vehicle collision and negotiate an adequate settlement to address your injuries, lost wages and damages. If required, a lawsuit can be filed to force an insurance company and/or the offending driver(s) to compensate you for your damages.

If you’ve been involved in a multi-vehicle collision, or pile-up, it’s important you contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Getting ahead of the curve on your claim can go a long way toward ensuring you receive the compensation you require.

To discuss your individual case and determine the best route forward, contact R. Mack Babcock and associates at the Babcock Law Firm today for a free consultation.