A multi-vehicle accident is one that involves more than two vehicles, and when you’re hurt in this type of accident, a personal injury claim can be complex and confusing. Since multi-vehicle accidents usually result from a chain reaction, there are a numerous vehicles and parties involved often making it difficult to determine who is at fault. An experienced attorney can help you understand Florida’s pure comparative fault laws for car crashes and how to receive fair compensation. 
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Accident
After being involved in a multi-vehicle accident, there are several things you should do. It is important to seek immediate medical treatment for any injuries that have resulted from the accident, and get a medical report from the treating physician. In addition, you should do the following:
- Call the police, and obtain and copy of the police report.
- If you can remain at the scene, take photos of the vehicles involved in the accident from every angle.
- Take photos of any evidence from the scene such as water/snow on the road, skid marks, property damage to all cars, and the debris field.
- Get the names, contact information, and insurance information of all the drivers and passengers.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Contact an accident attorney before speaking to any insurance companies.
Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents
A multi-vehicle accident commonly happens where there is a high volume of traffic, especially on highways, expressways, or other heavily traveled roads. Some common causes of multi-vehicle accidents are:
- Speeding
- Driver distraction
- Hazardous road conditions
- Inexperienced drivers
- Drivers who are intoxicated
- Medical emergencies
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law: Determining Fault
Since liability determines who will pay for accident damages, an investigation into the crash is important. A car accident attorney can help investigate and determine who is at fault. Florida is a pure comparative negligence state. This means, if you’re the injured party, you can collect damages proportional to your percentage of fault. In other words, whatever percentage you are found negligent, your financial compensation will be reduced by that amount. So, if you were 75% at fault and would have received $100,000 in damages, you’ll likely receive $25,000.
The following damages may be compensated by the parties at fault:
- Property damages
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of future earnings
Call an Experienced Florida Car Accident Attorney
As a former State Trooper, Attorney Coy Browning understands multi-vehicle car accidents and knows what is needed to investigate your claim. If you were injured as a result of a multi-vehicle accident, contact Browning Law Firm, or fill out our online contact form to set up a free, no obligation consultation.
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