Rear-end collisions can lead to chain reaction accidents in heavy traffic areas. For example, a car might be unable to stop and rear-end the vehicle in front of it, pushing it forward into the car in front of it.
The vehicle in the middle got the most damage because it was basically in two accidents and suffered damage at both the rear and front of the vehicle. This caused vehicle occupants to be tossed forward and backward twice.
If you are in a rear-end collision involving three cars, who is responsible is dependent on your location in the three-car pileup and why the crash occurred.
Fault In A Rear-End Collision
Almost always, the driver in the back that rear-ends the vehicle in front of it is to blame for the crash. A vehicle is supposed to drive far enough behind the car in front of it and at a speed safe enough, so it can stop in time if the car in front must slam its brakes suddenly. In very rare circumstances the car in front might also be partly to blame for the accident.
As an example, if the car in front slows down or stops to turn then does not execute the turn or if the car in front does not have operational brake lights. In the majority of rear-end collisions, the car in the very back is at fault.
When three or more cars are involved, the car in the rear is usually liable, but the car in the middle might be partially liable as well depending on how far that vehicle was from the car in front at the time of the crash.
What To Do After A Rear-End Collision Involving Three Cars
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision involving three cars, you should call the police. Even if you believe the accident was minor, an accident report should be filed. The police will investigate the crash and they will determine who was at fault for the accident that resulted.
Keep a copy of the accident report and be sure to give a statement to the officer regarding what happened during the crash. Seek medical care right away and keep copies of the medical records and the medical bills. Maintain documentation to show missed work and lost wages.
Be sure to keep copies of written statements from any eyewitnesses. Also, get written repair estimates for your vehicle.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in a rear-end collision involving three cars, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who is licensed in your state.
Accident injury law can be complicated and handling negotiations with an auto insurance company can be challenging.
To get your claim on the right track, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have your case reviewed by a lawyer. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose.
