Accidents involving multiple cars can create complex legal situations. Determining who is at fault becomes more difficult when there are so many factors to consider.
In Pennsylvania, liability depends on the actions of each driver and the specific circumstances of the crash. Understanding this system of liability will help you get the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence rule
Pennsylvania uses a comparative negligence system to assign responsibility in car accidents. Under this rule, each driver can receive a percentage of fault for the accident. A driver can recover compensation if their share of fault does not exceed 50 percent. However, the amount of compensation decreases by their percentage of fault. For example, if a driver is 30 percent at fault, they can recover 70 percent of their damages.
Determining fault in multi-car accidents
Establishing fault in a multi-car accident often requires a thorough investigation. Common causes of these accidents include tailgating, speeding, distracted driving or sudden lane changes. Chain-reaction collisions, where one car hits another and causes a series of impacts, are common in these situations. Investigators will examine the evidence to determine how the accident began and which drivers contributed to it.
Eyewitness statements and video footage can help identify who caused the initial collision and whether other drivers acted negligently. For instance, if one driver failed to stop at a red light, they may bear primary responsibility. However, if other drivers were speeding or following too closely, they may share some fault.
How Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance affects claims
Pennsylvania follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning drivers typically rely on their own insurance to cover medical expenses after an accident. However, serious injuries can allow a driver to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against other at-fault drivers.
In a multi-car accident, you may need to pursue claims against multiple drivers if your injuries and damages exceed insurance limits. The comparative negligence system will determine how much compensation you can recover based on each driver’s level of fault. Staying aware of these laws can help you navigate such a complex situation.
