Possible Damages in Multi-Car Accidents
It is challenging to calculate damages in multiple vehicle accidents. Sometimes, there are other drivers who get involved in a crash because the at-fault driver or other events beyond the drivers’ control are involved. Either way, multiple-vehicle accidents can result in many injuries and varying levels of property damage. The possible damages in these accidents depend on the calculation of each of the Kent car accident attorney helping with the personal injury claim for each driver or victim of the accident.
Property damage
One of the important aspects of multi-vehicle accidents is property damage of both the vehicles and the accident scene. In case there are objects or the vehicles crash into the railing or road signs, there may be a significant increase in property damage.
Note that the possible damages increase with an increase in property destruction and that means the at-fault entity will end up paying a higher compensation amount. Besides, the greater the impact of the vehicle, the more costly it is to get the car repaired. While these damages will be taken care of by the at-fault entity’s insurer, a lawsuit can increase a low settlement offer to a more expensive one.
Personal injuries in the crash
Personal injuries to both drivers and passengers are another issue that might increase the seriousness of multiple vehicle crashes. Keep in mind that the trauma of a wreck involving more than two vehicles can result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, severe bruising, and other injuries that might result in a permanent change to the victim’s life or even death. Treatment and other healthcare related expenses associated with these incidences can increase the overall claim compensation sought.
Fault and payment of damages
The payment of compensatory damages to a victim of a multiple car accident depends on the at-fault entity according to the court’s evaluation and the specific state and federal laws. Keep in mind that the legal defense team might use fault as a defensive technique and try to convince the court that you, the plaintiff, was partially responsible for the crash. Some states would invalidate your claim if you were partially responsible for the accident. So, hire a good lawyer to evaluate and handle your case carefully.
Special damages
In addition to the usual damages awarded in personal injury claims, multiple vehicle accidents may involve other damages such as therapy, trauma, and punitive damages. The court might determine that a driver or several entities should suffer extra punishment and as a result, incur punitive damages against the entity. This is likely to increase the monetary awards make sure that the at-fault entity suffers punishment in addition to the usual compensation awarded to the victims of car accidents.
Seek legal help
Generally, determining fault in multi-car crashes isn’t an easy task. Besides, each driver is likely to blame the other for the accident. In such a case, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced attorney for legal counsel.
