Georgia Multi-Vehicle Accidents: Determining Fault (PDF)

When we are involved in a car accident, it can be stressful and confusing. Not only need to have to deal with the physical and emotional aftermath of the accident, but also have to deal with the financial implications. 

From repairing the car to paying for medical bills and lost wages, the costs of an accident can quickly add up. And if we’re not at fault for the accident, maybe wondering how you can get the other driver to pay for the damages.

Unfortunately, determining fault in multi-vehicle car accidents is not always a clear-cut process. It can often be quite complicated, as many factors need to be considered.

Some of the reasons why multi-vehicle car accidents happen

• Obstructed Line of Sight – There are obstructions on the road that cause multi-vehicle crashes. That might surprise you, but it is not bad driving. Drivers can swerve into other lanes of traffic or stop suddenly without informing other drivers that they are there because of obstructions such as trash cans, parked cars, or roadkill. This can result in multiple cars colliding.
• Speeding. Exceeding the posted speed limit is one of the common triggers of multi-vehicle accidents in Atlanta. Driving too fast for the conditions of the road or a reasonable speed, however, can be just as hazardous. This is mainly due to reduced control and limited time to react. Speeding makes it harder for drivers to stop if they encounter an unexpected obstacle or if they notice something dangerous up ahead. In such situations, they may not be able to avoid a collision even if they try hard enough because there simply isn’t enough time to do so. Also, increased speed significantly raises the risk of severe injury in case of a crash as the vehicle can hit others at high velocities (e.g., more than 50 miles per hour).
• Distracted Driving. Distracted driving is a major factor in the prevalence of multi-vehicle collisions in Atlanta. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has notoriously reported that 10% of all car crashes are caused by distracted drivers. One of the biggest concerns is texting while driving, yet conversations on phones or with passengers can be just as engaging. Other activities, such as consuming food and drinks, changing radio/CD configurations, examining maps/directions, modifying temperature settings, and styling hair/applying makeup can also be factored in causing accidents.

• 1. 1. Eating and drinking
     2. Adjusting radio or CD player settings
     3. Looking at maps or directions
     4. Adjusting the temperature controls
     5. Grooming your hair or putting on makeup
• Driving Under the Influence. Driving under the influence can often be a cause of multi-vehicle accidents in Atlanta. Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, can lead to reduced acuity and delayed reaction times behind the wheel, thus heightening the risk of hitting other vehicles or running red lights. Such circumstances may result in severe personal injuries and property damage for all parties involved. In case you were hurt due to another driver’s intoxication, call our skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyers for assistance with filing a lawsuit versus the liable party!
• Following Too Closely. Multi-vehicle accidents in Atlanta are often caused by following too closely. This means driving too close to the car ahead, posing a risk not only to you but other drivers. You could end up rear-ending them if they suddenly stop or change lanes without warning, and another driver might try to merge if they think there is enough space—but if there isn’t, an accident could happen. To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, keep a safe distance when approaching turns or intersections and slow your speed accordingly; avoid assuming there will be room for you to merge should another car be following too closely behind.

If you’re trying to identify a fault in a multi-vehicle accident, there are several steps you can take toward that goal. Gather as much data about the crash as possible and obtain contact information from any witnesses. Obtaining photographs of the scene is beneficial as well. Having more details will help you make an educated decision on how to proceed. Furthermore, speaking with an attorney who specializes in car accidents is advisable due to their access to experts who might be able to point out liability based on the evidence before approaching the insurance company of their client.