How To Get Compensation For A Multi-Vehicle Car Accident In Miami
Considering the amount of traffic in our area, relatively minor mistakes can lead to major car accidents in Miami. Multi-vehicle pile-ups are common and impact numerous other drivers involved. If you are injured in this type of crash, you may be wondering who to hold responsible. Our Miami car accident lawyers explain how you can get the compensation you are entitled to in a multi-vehicle claim.
The Risk of Multi-Vehicle Car Accidents In Miami
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), car accidents impact roughly 60,000 people each year. When they happen on major highways, it increases the odds of multi-vehicle pile-ups. Factors that increase the risk include:
- Multiple lane highways;
- Narrow roads without a shoulder;
- Heavy traffic congestion;
- Tailgating, or following other motorists too closely;
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions;
- Texting, talking on cellphones, and other driver distractions.
Even an otherwise minor fender can have a snowball effect under these conditions. In addition to impacting drivers directly behind those involved in a crash, it can also involve motorists in opposing lanes.
How To Get Compensation In A Multi-Vehicle Car Accident
When any type of car accident in Miami happens, it is important to pull over immediately, notify law enforcement, and exchange information with other motorists involved. This is particularly true in a multi-vehicle crash, where there may be several drivers who can be held accountable. It is also important to gather as much evidence as you can at the scene. This includes photos of the accident site and damage to the various vehicles involved, as well as the names of any witnesses.
While insurance can help offset some of the damages you suffer, the best course of action in a multi-car crash is often to file a car accident lawsuit, specifically naming all those involved. Under the Florida Statutes, each driver can be held liable according to their percentage of the blame. For example:
- You are involved in a multi-vehicle car accident involving three other drivers and suffer $100,000 in damages;
- The first driver is determined to be 60 percent responsible for the crash, while the other two each share 20 percent of the blame;
- Based on these percentages, the first driver would be required to pay $60,000 while the other two would pay $20,000 each.
It is important to note that under the legal theory of comparative negligence, even if you are determined to be partly at fault in a multi-vehicle accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. However, the amount you receive would be reduced by the percent for which you were responsible.
Request A Consultation With Our Miami Car Accident Lawyers Today
Determining blame in a car accident can present challenges. This is particularly true in a multi-vehicle crash. To get the amount you are entitled to, get Pita Weber Del Prado on your side. Call 305-670-2889 or contact our Miami car accident lawyers online and request a consultation today.
Source:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf
