When multiple motor vehicles are involved in an accident in Texas, determining fault can be a complicated process. In some cases, it may be clear who is at fault, but in others, the situation may be less black and white. If you have been injured in a multiple car accident and are trying to figure out who is responsible, here are some things to keep in mind.
It’s important to know the driver who first acted negligently
For example, if one driver rear-ends another, it’s usually because they were following too closely and didn’t leave enough space to brake safely. If you’re not sure who acted first, look for skid marks on the road. These can help you determine who was going too fast or following too closely.
If one driver rear-ends another, it’s usually because they were following too closely and didn’t leave enough space to brake safely.
There may be more than one liable party
In some cases, there may be more than one driver at fault. For example, if two drivers ran a red light and collided, both would be at fault. Additionally, if a driver hits a pedestrian who was crossing the street illegally, both the driver and the pedestrian may be at fault. In many cases, how much each party is at fault will be determined by the court.
All parties involved may not be at fault
In some motor vehicle accidents, one or more drivers may not be at fault. For example, if a driver hits a deer that ran into the road and then collides with another car, the driver who hit the deer would not be at fault. In these cases, it’s important to have a police report that documents what happened.
Your insurance company may help you determine fault
After an accident, your insurance company will likely investigate the circumstances to determine who is at fault. In some cases, they may even hire a private investigator. If you have any questions about their determination, you can always ask for a copy of their report.
It’s also important to note that in many states, drivers are typically required to have insurance that covers them in the event of an accident regardless of who is at fault. So, even if you are partially responsible for an accident, you may still be able to file a claim with your insurance company.