Car accident cases can get complex quickly, especially when multiple vehicles are involved. If you’re seeking appropriate legal recourse for a multi-vehicle collision in Charleston, South Carolina, it’s a good idea to understand how fault is determined in these claims.
Multi-vehicle collisions, also known as pile-ups or chain-reaction accidents, happen when three or more vehicles are involved in a chain of impacts. Determining fault in such accidents is not always straightforward. Factors like sudden stops, unclear road conditions, distracted driving, and speeding can contribute to the complexity and confusion in these cases.
In multi-vehicle collision cases, gathering evidence is key to establishing fault. This evidence can include police reports, eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, vehicle damage assessments, and expert opinions. A skilled Charleston car wreck lawyer will use this evidence to reconstruct the accident and determine liability.
South Carolina operates under a modified comparative negligence system for personal injury cases involving car accidents, which impacts how compensation is awarded based on fault.
Under this system, injured claimants involved in multi-car accidents can get compensation for damages if their degree of fault is less than 51%. However, any compensation awarded will be reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault. For instance, if a plaintiff is found to be 40% at fault and the defendant is 60%, the plaintiff's compensation may be reduced by 40%.
If a driver is deemed to be more than 50% at fault, they are not eligible for any compensation. This rule is grounded in the principle that the plaintiff should not bear more responsibility for the injuries than the defendant.
During legal proceedings for a multi-car accident, the jury determines the percentage of fault for each party involved, including both the plaintiff and defendants. The total fault assigned by the jury must be 100%. Based on this allocation of fault, the court then issues judgments against each defendant, reflecting their respective responsibility as determined by the jury.
When multiple vehicles are involved in a collision, identifying the at-fault parties requires a thorough investigation. A Charleston car wreck lawyer will examine factors such as witness statements, traffic laws, vehicle positions, and driver actions leading up to the accident to determine liability.
Medical Expenses
For all medical costs related to injuries sustained in the accident. This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses related to your injuries.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may receive compensation for lost wages and income. Additionally, if your earning capacity is permanently affected, you can claim compensation for future lost earnings.
Property Damage
For damage to your vehicle and any other property that was damaged or destroyed in the accident.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages such as physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident and your injuries.
If you've been injured in a multi-vehicle collision in South Carolina, don't hesitate to get legal guidance from our knowledgeable attorney. A Charleston car wreck lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else's negligence in South Carolina, it can be hard to know what to do next. At Riders Law Group we can help you get the compensation you deserve to continue providing for your family and to recover after an accident.