Tag: car accident

Who Is at Fault in a Multi-Vehicle Crash?

 

When you get into a multi-vehicle car accident, it can be a bit of a challenge trying to figure out exactly who caused it. Although every state has its own traffic laws which regulate exactly what is and isn’t allowed on the road, there are some pretty standard regulations regarding how to identify the person at fault in a multi-vehicle crash.

According to statistics, 5.25 million accidents happen in the United States each year, which is why it is so important to know the proper steps to follow if you happen to be involved in an accident involving multiple vehicles.

What Happens After A Multi-Vehicle Crash?

There are a few standard procedures that you can expect to happen immediately after a multi-vehicle car crash. Once the police arrive on the scene, they will likely check to make sure that everyone is safe and not suffering from any serious injuries. Once they assess all injuries or confirm that everyone is unharmed, an investigation will begin to find out exactly how the accident occurred and who caused it.

Some of the evidence that will be collected during the accident investigation will include:

  • Witness statements

  • Photos of the damage

  • Video surveillance footage

There may also be other elements of the accident scene collected by law enforcement to attempt an accident reconstruction. Accident reconstruction refers to a process in which law enforcement will attempt to “replay” the moments leading up to the accident based on clues they find at the scene.

Accident Compensation

In multi-vehicle accidents, the amount of damages that could be paid will depend on a variety of factors. Typically, in a standard two-car accident, both drivers have a 50/50 chance of being the sole cause of the crash. In a multi-vehicle crash, all parties involved may receive a damage payout depending on the percentage of fault they assume once the investigation occurs. In many states, any driver found to be more than 50% responsible for an accident will not be eligible to receive any damage compensation. If you’re found to be at least 50% responsible for the accident or lower, you may receive damage compensation that will be determined based on your fault percentage.

Once you go to court, you’ll need the right attorney who knows how to handle multi-vehicle crashed so you get the money you’re owed.

Hiring the Right Law Firm to Assist You

When you’re involved in a multi-vehicle accident, your insurance company prioritizes vehicle damage over personal injury. To make sure that you get all of the money you deserve from being in a multi-vehicle crash, contact a professional law firm who will fight for you.

The amazing legal team at Lanzotti & Rau LLC is proud to represent all Missouri residents who need assistance in dealing with multi-vehicle crash claims. If you are ready to speak with a vehicle accident attorney today, contact our offices at 573-335-9300 or visit our website.

What to Do if You Suffer from Whiplash

 

Even at speeds as slow as 15 mph, an automobile accident can seriously injure a driver or passenger in a way that limits their mobility and reduces their quality of life. In fact, one of the most commonly diagnosed slow-speed injuries is whiplash.

What Is Whiplash?

Whiplash commonly results from the sudden impact of a car accident that causes the head and neck of a driver or passenger to violently whip forward. Such an unexpected jolt can result in severe pain and discomfort for the victim, and other potentially chronic symptoms.

Common Whiplash Symptoms

The most common symptoms of whiplash is neck pain and stiffness. Sufferers of whiplash may also experience other symptoms that may not present themselves until days or weeks after the injury such as:

  • Neck strain or sprain

  • Concussion-like symptoms such as migraines or headaches

  • Back and shoulder pain

  • Slipped or herniated discs

  • Soft tissue, ligament, and muscle damage

  • Extremity and limb numbness

  • Dizziness or confusion

  • Insomnia

  • Fatigue

Act Fast After an Accident

If you believe you have whiplash after an automobile collision, you should immediately contact a doctor. There is a statute of limitations on car crash injury cases, so it’s best that all scans and medical treatment for car accidents injuries be conducted within two weeks of the incident. After addressing your injuries, contact the lawyers at Lanzotti & Rau. We know how to handle car accident injury cases and can help you receive fair compensation for your injuries. To learn more about our services, call us today to schedule a free consultation at 573-335-9300.