Who Is Responsible in a Three-Car Collision?

A three-car collision can lead to much deadlier injuries and damage than a single car accident or two-car collision. Determining who is at fault for a three-car collision can be a challenge depending on the circumstances of the accident. The driver at fault is most often responsible for covering the cost of the collision. However, it is possible that all three drivers might be held liable, or at fault, for the accident. 

In addition to determining fault, insurance companies often delay payments. To avoid this, you’ll need one of our New Orleans car accident attorneys fighting for you. 

How Is Fault Determined in a Three-Car Collision? 

In Louisiana, which is an at-fault state, the court will determine which driver is at fault. In three-car collisions, all drivers involved may be liable for damages due to Louisiana law having comparative fault. This means even those partially responsible for the collision can seek compensation.

The amount of compensation awarded to each driver, if any, depends on the percentage of fault. If you are found at fault, this means the accident was partially caused by your own negligence and that your insurance is responsible for paying for the damages. Since one driver is rarely alone to blame for multiple-vehicle collisions; each driver is responsible for paying their share of damages.

Causes of New Orleans Three-Car Accidents

Most often, three-car collisions are caused by chain reaction accidents. When two vehicles crash, the first collision or the effect of the collided vehicles leads to even more vehicles in the accident. Particularly when they happen on highways or interstates where traffic is heavy and moving fast, these are referred to as “pileups.” 

Like most traffic accidents, three-car collisions are caused by negligence. Three-car collisions are often caused by: 

• Distracted driving 
• Bad weather
• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Inexperienced drivers
• Driving under the influence
• Reckless driving

How to Avoid Louisiana Three-Car Accidents

It is impossible to avoid any type of car accident, especially a three-car collision. There are a few things you can do to ensure your safety and try to prevent a three-car collision, such as

• Always use your turn signal to let other drivers know your intentions when turning or changing lanes.
• Avoid speeding, especially when it is raining or traffic is heavy. 
• Avoid tailgating. Keep enough distance between your car and other vehicles to avoid a rear-end collision. Remember, you will need more room to stop if you are driving a larger vehicle. 
• Be extra careful when driving around semi-trucks and tractor trailers because of their increased stopping distance, wide blind areas, and tendency to roll over in collisions.
• Never cut off a truck on the road or drive in their blind spot.

Possible Damages from a Three-Car Collision 

If you are a victim of a three-car collision in Louisiana, are entitled to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or drivers to recover damages for the losses and costs you sustained. The amount and types of damages awarded will depend on the details of the case. Possible damages you might be entitled to include: 

• Pain and suffering
• Lost wages
• Medical expenses 
• Future medical expenses
• Car repairs
• Rental car costs

Contact a Louisiana Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a three-car collision in Louisiana, Mike Brandner Law can help you pursue damages for any injuries or harm you sustained. We can also work with your insurance company to ensure your claim is settled fairly and quickly. Additionally, if you lost a loved one in a car accident due to negligence, Louisiana law allows surviving family members to pursue wrongful death damages.