If you have been involved in a multivehicle car accident, making sure you receive just compensation for your injuries will require a thorough investigation and the ability to navigate the unique insurance issues involved. Whether a single driver was at fault in the accident or multiple factors led to the collision, you will need clear evidence to prove your claim, and you will need a skilled and aggressive advocate who can make sure the insurance companies treat you fairly.

HOW DO YOU PROVE FAULT IN A MULTIVEHICLE ACCIDENT?

While multivehicle accidents present some unique challenges, the process of proving fault is largely the same as it is for any other type of motor vehicle collision. The key is to conduct an investigation as soon as possible. This includes collecting evidence at the scene of the accident; inspecting each of the vehicles involved in the collision; and, obtaining copies of police reports, phone records and any other forms of documentation that may provide evidence of liability.

HOW DOES FLORIDA’S “NO FAULT” INSURANCE LAW AFFECT MULTIVEHICLE ACCIDENT CLAIMS?

Under Florida’s “no fault” insurance law, the first $10,000 of your financial recovery will typically come from your own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance policy. This PIP coverage is mandatory under Florida law. If your losses exceed $10,000 – which could easily be the case if you have suffered serious and permanent injuries – then you can pursue fault-based claims against the other drivers’ insurance companies.

WHAT IF ONE (OR BOTH) OF THE OTHER DRIVERS ARE UNINSURED?

If you are entitled to compensation beyond your PIP coverage and one or both of the other drivers involved in the accident is uninsured, you potentially have a few options available. If at least one of the drivers is insured, then you can pursue a claim against his or her insurance company. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) insurance coverage, you may be able to file a claim against your UIM policy as well – and you may be able to “stack” your coverage if you have multiple vehicles.

It is also possible that a road hazard or vehicle defect caused or contributed to your collision. If this is the case, you could have a claim against an automotive manufacturer, construction contractor or other third party.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO PROTECT MY RIGHTS?

To protect your rights after a multivehicle collision, the most important thing you can do is contact an attorney as soon as possible.

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