Because three-way car accidents commonly involve a chain reaction of events, the person responsible for setting the events in motion is at fault. For example, the driver at the back of the line is likely at fault for a three-vehicle pileup if that driver hit the middle car and pushed it into the vehicle in front. However, if the middle car hit the lead car first, the driver of the middle car could be at fault.
Determining fault after a single-vehicle or two-vehicle collision is often straightforward, as one driver is typically solely or primarily responsible for causing the crash. However, far more variables are at play when three vehicles collide. Determining liability can be considerably more complex.
Although one person could be entirely responsible for a three-way car accident, every individual involved in the vehicle collision could share some degree of fault. Consequently, if you’ve been involved in a three-vehicle crash in Virginia, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney immediately.
At Marks & Harrison, our Virginia car accident lawyers have been defending the rights of injured people like you for more than a century. We are prepared to investigate the circumstances of your case, determine who is liable for your injuries, and demand that they compensate you for your losses.
Contact us online today for a free consultation with an experienced Virginia car accident attorney from our law firm.
How Does Insurance Determine Liability?
Auto insurance companies typically determine liability based on the circumstances of the particular three-way collision. To determine these circumstances, they will likely use evidence including:
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Information from the police report
- Photos and physical evidence from the accident scene
- Traffic camera and dashcam videos
- Analysis from crash reconstruction experts
Three-way crashes are often the result of driver error, such as when a motorist strikes the vehicle at the back of a line of cars and causes that vehicle to strike the one in front of it, or when a driver making an unsafe left turn strikes an oncoming vehicle and sends it into a third.
Common factors that contribute to three-way accidents and affect liability include:
- Aggressive driving
- Failure to use a turn signal
Can You Challenge Fault in a Three-Way Car Accident?
Unfortunately, insurance companies use tactics to avoid accepting that their policyholders were liable following car crashes – particularly in multi-vehicle collisions with expensive losses. Another driver or their insurer might blame you for the accident. That is common in three-way collisions. No one wants to be at fault and pay compensation to the other injured parties.
If you file a claim and the insurance company denies or undervalues it, an attorney can help you challenge that assessment, potentially with a lawsuit. It’s critical to hire an experienced lawyer to assist you with the legal process. Even if the insurance adjuster seems like they want to help you, they are looking out for their employer’s profits, not your well-being. They will use every trick in the book to get you to say the wrong thing so they can shift the blame to you.
Marks & Harrison can represent your best interests and communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. We know how insurance adjusters operate, thoroughly investigate a crash to discover the most compelling evidence on our client’s behalf, and what to do to prove someone else was at fault for the crash. We can file a lawsuit on your behalf and bring your case to court if necessary.
What Should I Do After Being Involved in a Three-Way Car Accident?
If you suffer an injury in a three-way car crash, you should safeguard your health and your rights to compensation by:
- Seeking prompt medical attention – It’s vital not to wait weeks or even days before beginning treatment. Go to the hospital once you leave the accident scene for an evaluation of your injuries. The doctor should give you a diagnosis and a treatment plan. If they instruct you to attend physical therapy, undergo an imaging test, or follow up with a specialist, follow their orders.
- Keeping all documentation – Be sure to keep a copy of every document associated with the accident. Maintain records regarding your treatment and any associated bills. You should also keep any letters the insurance company sends to you during your claim. Writing a complete list of any out-of-pocket expenses resulting from the crash could also be beneficial in establishing your losses. The documentation you collect could serve as helpful evidence to prove another driver was at fault.
- Getting legal help – You should consult with a Virginia three-way accident lawyer as soon as possible. It’s never a good idea to attempt to handle your claim alone. The insurance company could take advantage of your lack of knowledge and experience. They might try to intimidate you into accepting a lowball settlement or deny your claim unfairly. If you don’t understand your rights, you might end up with an undesirable outcome.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Injury Claim in Virginia?
The statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuit claims, such as car accidents, is two years. What this means is that you have a two-year time frame in which to submit your personal injury claim. Should you fail to submit your lawsuit before that time runs out, you will have effectively lost your opportunity to have your claim heard in court. So, if you are considering submitting a car accident claim, be sure to get the process in motion as soon as possible.
Contact Our Virginia Car Accident Attorneys Today
Since 1911, Marks & Harrison has fought to help people like you seek compensation and justice. When you hire us, we will thoroughly investigate the accident, obtain the available evidence to prove liability, and create a compelling argument on your behalf.
Our legal team includes former insurance adjusters, attorneys for insurance companies, and law enforcement personnel. We know the inner workings of accident claims and how to handle the process effectively.
If you’ve been hurt in a three-way car accident in Virginia and someone else is to blame, contact Marks & Harrison right now. We’re available 24/7, so you can reach us when you need us the most. We take cases on contingency, so you’re not responsible for upfront fees or costs. We won’t expect you to pay us unless we recover compensation for you.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation with an experienced Virginia three-way car accident lawyer.
