If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know that it’s not always so easy to prove who was at fault. In a two-car accident, it’s not that difficult. You look to see what kind of damages the cars sustained. You can also ask witnesses what they saw.
When it comes to a multi-car accident, things are a lot more complicated. In crashes like this, people tend to lose sight of what actually happened. With cars going in different directions, it becomes a lot more difficult to determine who initially caused the impact.
If you’re involved in a multi-car accident, you’re going to need a Virginia Beach car accident attorney. You need to figure out whose insurance company you need to file a claim with. You also may have to file a lawsuit against more than one person.
A car accident attorney in Virginia Beach has experience handling cases like this. They know how to negotiate with the insurance companies. They also know how to handle multi-party litigation, and can focus on the legal side of things while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
Which Driver is at Fault?
It’s not easy to determine who is at fault in a multi-car accident. Your lawyer will look at pictures of the accident scene. He’ll also review the damage done to the vehicles. These things can usually help piece together exactly what happened.
The other thing your Virginia Beach car accident attorney can do is hire an accident recreation specialist. These people are experts in determining who was at fault in multi-vehicle crashes. They’ll use all the information and apply their scientific knowledge to the facts. They can testify as to who they believe was at fault.
If the accident took place on a highway in bumper to bumper traffic, the rear driver will probably be held at fault. This is because the rear driver is generally liable for any rear-end collisions. But if the accident took place at a busy intersection, different rules apply.
In intersection crashes, you have to look to see who had the right of way at the time of the crash. If someone ran a red light, they’re obviously going to be held at fault. Or, if someone was speeding at the time of the accident, they may be held liable.
The way the rules are applied depend on the facts of your case. Every case is different. This is why it’s so important that you call the police. They’ll prepare a police report that will help your lawyer prove the other drivers were at fault.
What Information is Contained in a Police Report?
One of the most helpful tools in determining fault is a police report. When the cops investigate the accident scene, they’re going to make notes of the crash. They’ll include the following things in their accident report:
- Names and contact information of all witnesses
- Pictures of the accident scene
- Description of road conditions
- Statements made by the drivers
- Statements made by witnesses
- Insurance and license info for both drivers
- Records of any tickets issues
- Notations if either of the drivers were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash
A few of these things are very determinative when it comes to proving liability. For example, if a driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, they’ll be presumed responsible. Likewise, if anyone is issued a ticket for running a stop sign or speeding, your lawyer can use it as evidence of fault.
If you don’t call the police, none of this information will be available. Your lawyer can’t go back and get this information any other way. He’s going to have to find this information on his own. That will be difficult.
In order to give your Virginia Beach car accident lawyer the best shot at winning your case, you’re going to need that police report.
Contact a Virginia Beach Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’re involved in a multi-car accident, you’re going to need help. You should call a Virginia Beach car accident attorney right away. Your lawyer can review your case and let you know who he thinks was at fault. He can also let you know what your case may be worth.
Call and schedule your initial consultation today. The consultation is absolutely free and you pay nothing until you settle your case.
Let's get started with your free consultation!