When motor vehicle accidents occur, they usually only involve two drivers. However, when they involve multiple vehicles, the claim becomes exponentially more complicated. Here is what you need to know about multi-vehicle accidents and who is liable.
Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Collisions
Multi-vehicle accidents can occur for various reasons. They often occur in congested traffic. For example, if one vehicle is tailgating the vehicle in front of them and cause a rear-end collision, this can create a chain reaction of additional crashes as bumper-to-bumper traffic results in multiple vehicles colliding with each other.
The chain-reaction aspect of pileup accidents is often initiated when one driver causes a crash, and then other vehicles follow suit. Common precipitating actions that result in car wrecks include:
- Speeding
- Texting while driving
- Other forms of distracted driving
- Inattention
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Impaired driving
- Failing to yield the right of way
In these accidents, the initial driver who caused the crash may be found at fault for the accident. However, other drivers may have made mistakes in causing the additional accidents and can be held liable for their negligence, too.
Oklahoma Law on Joint Tortfeasors
If more than one motorist is determined to be at fault for a motor vehicle accident, Oklahoma law generally only holds each motorist responsible for their own degree of fault. While some states let accident victims seek full compensation from any liable party, Oklahoma law generally only allows you to seek the extent of compensation from each at-fault party that they are determined to be responsible for injuries.
Under this system, a factfinder evaluates the situation and assigns a certain amount of fault to each party, adding up to 100%. The victim would file a claim against each at-fault party and could recover the amount of compensation multiplied by each defendant’s separate degree of fault. For example, if the accident victim suffered $100,000 in damages and Defendant A was responsible for 20% of the accident and Defendant B was responsible for 40% of the accident, the victim could recover $20,000 from Defendant A and $40,000 from Defendant B respectively.
Oklahoma’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
Another Oklahoma law that can apply in these types of cases is the modified comparative negligence rule. This rule applies if you are found to have contributed to the accident. Under this rule, you cannot recover compensation for an accident if you are found to have contributed equally or more than the defendant.
If the defendant is mostly at fault for the accident, you can seek compensation from them. However, your recovery is reduced by your degree of fault. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident, your compensation is reduced proportionately by 20%.
Contact Our OKC Multi-Vehicle Car Accident Attorneys for a Free Case Review
Dealing with a multi-vehicle accident can be complicated when everyone has a different version of events. An experienced personal injury attorney from Oklahoma Injury Law Firm can investigate your case, gather strong evidence, and determine all liable parties for your injuries. Call (405) 310-8800Â to take advantage of a free consultation.