When we think of a car accident, we generally think of two cars colliding. Alternatively, one car collides with an object or the bumper guards on the highway. Very rarely do we take into account multi-car crashes. These accidents may seem like scenes out of a movie but are unfortunately quite common. Just a few days ago a driver was injured during a multi-car crash on an eastbound Toronto highway. This led to the closure of all but one eastbound lane during rush hour. When it comes to situations such as these, many questions may arise. Who is responsible? How can I stay safe if I’ve been involved in one? Luckily, isure has all of your answers regarding multi-car crashes.
Multi-car crashes: Who is responsible?
Drivers generally assume that in an accident, when a car rear-ends a vehicle in front, the car behind is responsible for the accident. Typically, the car behind failed to maintain a safe braking distance, thus resulting in an accident.
On the other hand, cars involving more than two vehicles can be complex. It can be difficult to decipher who is responsible for the accident, unlike a single-vehicle accident. Due to this, law enforcement will take precise details of the accident. This can include the following:
- Damage done to cars involved.
- Position of cars after the accident.
- Any injuries to drivers.
- Weather conditions during the time of the accident.
Can more than one car be at fault?
When it comes to the police report of a multi-car crash, they will generally cite which vehicle is at fault, and how the accident occurred. In most cases, one car is at fault for the multi-car crash. However, two or more cars can share the blame. The amount of blame or “fault” is determined by the police officer who writes the report. Alternatively, it can be determined by the insurance adjusters while searching for an optimum solution.
For example, one driver may be deemed 80% at fault, and another driver may take the remaining 20% of the blame. This can be divided in many different ways. In some scenarios, everyone involved will share equal responsibility. The more people involved in a multi-car crash, the more complex the determination of fault can be.
What do I do if I’ve been in a multi-car crash?
If you’re involved in a multi-car crash, it is important to follow the correct steps to keep you, and those around you, safe. A multi-car crash can be very jarring, but you must keep calm and remain composed. Here are some steps you should follow if you have been in a multi-car crash.
- Stay inside your vehicle. Just like any accident, it is important to remain inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until safe to exit.
- Put your hazard lights on. This is to warn people around you that you have been in an accident and can avoid making the pile-up even worse.
- Record the incident and take photographs once law enforcement has secured the scene. If you are okay to do so, this will help you ensure the accident occurrence is as detailed as possible when it comes to making a claim.
- Notify your car insurance company immediately!
Multi-car crashes and insurance
Determining the fault in a multi-car crash can be difficult. On top of this, the damage done to vehicles in multi-car crashes is often more extensive than your average fender bender. In most cases, vehicles take damage in different areas. Additionally, there is an increased likelihood of bodily injury due to the severity of these accidents.
When it comes to these types of crashes and insurance, you will generally be moving forward similarly to a single-vehicle crash. Like any car accident, having adequate car insurance can shield you from most, or all, of this. This is more so the case when it is coupled with an umbrella policy. Of course, this can differentiate depending on how much fault you are determined to have. A good insurance policy is critical for any driver. If you are shopping around or looking for additional coverage, contact us or request a quote today!
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