Car accidents are traumatic events that can leave you confused and wondering what to do. These can become even more complicated when multiple vehicles are involved. For example, if two cars hit you on the road, who is liable for the accident?
Unfortunately, these types of accidents are more common than people think. They often happen at intersections, on highways or even in parking lots, where people are coming in and out of a place.
Determining liability
Determining who is at fault depends on a variety of factors. Was one driver driving under the influence? Were both? If neither were driving under the influence, did one of them violate a traffic regulation that led to the accident?
Typically, drivers don’t consider the entire situation, making it challenging to determine liability with complete certainty.
Comparative negligence
In California, the state follows comparative negligence laws, so multiple parties can be at fault based on their degree of responsibility. For example, if one driver was under the influence while the other ran a red light, the first driver will carry more responsibility than the second.
Negligent drivers
If both drivers were negligent and contributed to the accident, both can be liable for your injuries and damages. Negligence can include things like:
- Speeding
- Running a red light
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
Each driver’s insurance may cover a portion of your expenses based on the percentage of fault they assign you.
Third-party liability
In certain cases, factors that were beyond the driver’s control contributed to the accident. for example, road conditions. If these played a role in the accident, the entities responsible for maintaining the roads could share liability.
Your own actions
It is critical to consider your actions leading up to the accident, too. If you contributed to the event, and were also negligent, you might bear some responsibility.
However, even if you were partially at fault, you might still recover damages under California’s comparative negligence laws as long as you are not over 50% at fault.
Insurance coverage
Dealing with multiple insurance companies can be overwhelming. Each driver involved in the accident will likely have their own insurance provider.
These insurance companies will investigate the accident and negotiate settlements based on the policyholder’s degree of fault.
In any case, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident. That should be your number one priority, regardless of whether you think you sustained an injury. Medical evaluations can also help document injuries for insurance claims and possible legal action.
Every accident is unique, and the outcome will depend on the specific circumstances of the event. By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can get a better picture of where you stand and what you can expect after the accident and in your dealings with your attorney.