Multi-vehicle car accidents can be chaotic and challenging to navigate. With multiple parties involved, determining who is at fault becomes a complex process that requires careful consideration of the evidence. For example, in a collision with three cars where the second car rear-ended the first, you might think the second car is obviously at fault. However, the third car’s driver might have been using their phone and struck the second car because they were not paying attention. For Maryland residents, understanding how fault is determined is crucial, as Maryland follows the strict contributory negligence rule.
What Is Contributory Negligence?
Maryland is one of a few places that uses the idea of contributory negligence, which means that if you are found to have contributed to the accident in any way—even as little as 1%—you cannot recover compensation for your injuries or damages. This strict rule makes proving fault essential, as it requires demonstrating that you had no role in causing the collision. In multi-vehicle collisions, working with an attorney is particularly important to be able to demonstrate that you did not have any fault.
Evidence Makes a Big Difference
Evidence helps with any type of legal proceeding, but it’s particularly important in multi-vehicle car accidents, as you’ll need to be able to demonstrate that you are not at fault. The moments immediately following a multi-vehicle accident are critical for gathering evidence. If you are physically able to do so, take the following steps:
Photographs and Videos: Capture images of the entire accident scene, including vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, weather conditions, and road conditions.
Witness Information: Speak to witnesses who saw the accident unfold and obtain their contact information. Their unbiased accounts can provide valuable support.
Police Reports: Call the police to the scene. Officers will document the incident and give you a report number that you can use as part of your case.
Show the Chain of Events
Multi-vehicle accidents often involve chain-reaction collisions. Determining fault requires a thorough analysis of how the accident began and how each subsequent collision occurred. Factors like sudden stops, speeding, distracted driving, and weather conditions can all play a role. For example, if a rear-end collision caused the initial impact, the driver who failed to stop in time may bear primary responsibility. However, other drivers’ actions will also be examined to determine if they contributed to the pile-up.
In many multi-vehicle car accident cases, expert testimony can be invaluable in proving fault. Accident reconstruction experts use physics, vehicle damage, and other data to recreate the events leading to the collision. Their reports can clarify questions about how the accident happened and who may be responsible. Your attorney can assist you in finding experienced experts to provide testimony on your behalf.
If You Need Legal Assistance, Scheuerman Law, LLC Can Help!
Are you concerned about your ability to prove fault in a multi-vehicle collision? It’s important to work with an experienced attorney immediately. At Scheuerman Law, LLC, our expert team is in your corner. Schedule a free consultation with a member of our team by calling 410-391-5520 today.
