Handling a Multiple Party Car Accident Case
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident case involving you and one other driver is daunting enough. However, the situation gets even more complex when an accident involves multiple drivers. Car accidents involving multiple drivers present a unique set of challenges. Navigating such cases requires a careful and thorough approach. If you have been involved in a car accident and more than one driver is to blame for your accident, you need to understand how to navigate your case to ensure fair compensation and justice. This article discusses the intricacies of handling a multiple-party car accident case.
Understand Shared Liability
To navigate a car accident case involving multiple at-fault drivers, you need to understand shared liability. In Florida, when more than one party is to blame for a car accident, the concept of shared liability or comparative negligence comes into play. If more than one party is to blame for a car accident, each party’s actions will be evaluated to determine their respective levels of responsibility. For example, if three drivers are at fault in an accident, Driver 1 may be found to be 50% at fault, Driver 2 30%, and Driver 3 20%. In such a case, every driver’s financial responsibility will be proportionate to their level of fault.
Suppose you are partially to blame for your accident. In such a case, you are still eligible to recover compensation if you are not more than 50% to blame for your accident. This is because Florida follows the modified comparative negligence rule. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are 40% responsible for your accident and your damages total $100,000, you will recover $60,000 (60% of the total damages).
Steps To Take
The following are some of the crucial steps to take if your car accident involves multiple at-fault parties;
Document the Accident and Aftermath
One of the most crucial steps to take if your car accident case involves multiple at-fault drivers is to document the accident and its aftermath. For example, ensure you have photos or videos of the accident scene. Also, gather witnesses’ names and contact information. Documentation is vital as it can help with establishing each party’s liability.
Contact the Police
Ensure you call the police and report your accident. The police will prepare a report that can be crucial for your compensation claim.
Exchange Information
Another crucial step if your car accident involves multiple at-fault drivers is exchanging information with the other drivers. Collect names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers from all involved drivers. Additionally, you should exchange insurance information with all involved parties.
Contact an Attorney
Cases involving multiple at-fault parties can be complex. Therefore, it is wise to consult a qualified car accident attorney. A skilled lawyer can guide you on how to proceed. They can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you have been involved in a car accident and multiple parties are to blame for the accident, our West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Daytona Beach, Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Naples, Melbourne, Ocala, Orlando, and Bradenton areas.
