Chain-reaction collisions often result in significant injuries and extensive property damage. In general, individuals should be able to recover compensation after an accident caused by another driver, but establishing liability after a chain-reaction collision can be challenging. Here, we want to discuss different scenarios of who may be at fault after a chain-reaction collision occurs in Colorado.
Chain-Reaction Collisions Occur in Various Ways
The reality is that chain-reaction collisions occur in a variety of ways in the state of Colorado. Trying to explain all of the different ways that these accidents occur would not be possible within the words of a single article. However, most people understand that chain-reaction collisions involve multiple vehicles, though they usually start with an initial collision between two vehicles or one vehicle and another object.
After this initial collision, the nature of the scene often causes other vehicles to become involved, thus leading to the name “chain-reaction.” Usually, most people think of three or more vehicles being involved in these types of collisions.
There are various types of incidents that can occur that lead to a chain reaction. For a common example of how a chain-reaction collision starts in Colorado, we simply need to think about the winter months. Suppose one vehicle strikes a patch of ice on the highway, leading to them striking another car or the median. This could lead to other vehicles behind the initial collision crashing as well. We have all seen the scenes of dangerous chain-reaction pileups during the winter months, and this is certainly an extreme form of this type of collision.
In other situations, chain reactions can occur at stop signs or stoplights. Suppose that a driver is stopped at a stoplight but is then rear-ended by another driver who was distracted behind the wheel. This could cause the first vehicle to become pushed out into traffic in the intersection, leading to a chain reaction with other vehicles.
It does not matter how a chain-reaction collision occurs. What matters is determining liability in the aftermath of a chain-reaction incident so injury and property damage victims can recover compensation for their losses.
Determining Fault After a Colorado Chain-Reaction Crash
Determining fault after a chain-reaction collision in Colorado can be difficult, and there will almost always be a substantial investigation into the incident. The reality is that there may be a single driver at fault for a chain-reaction collision, or there could be more than one driver responsible. Often, it is necessary to use the comparative negligence system in Colorado to apportion liability and compensation.
Usually, the police at the scene will conduct an initial investigation. Additionally, insurance carriers and legal teams involved will likely gather additional types of information in order to determine exactly what happened. This can include:
- Photos were taken at the scene of the incident
- Surveillance footage from nearby cameras
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Statements from other drivers and passengers
- Mobile device data
- Electronic recording devices installed in vehicles
An experienced Colorado car accident attorney can help investigate every aspect of this claim on your behalf. Your attorney will represent you throughout the entirety of your case in order to help recover full compensation for your losses.