Many accidents involve only two drivers, which makes the investigation process relatively easy. If it is determined, for example, that one driver was heavily intoxicated at the time of the collision, it is likely that their actions led to the collision, and as a result, they will be held liable.
However, in a situation in which many cars are involved in a pileup, the predicament can be much more complex, and you may not know where to start when it comes to filing for compensation for property damages, medical bills and emotional damages. The following is an overview of car accident laws in Arizona as it relates to multi-car pileups.
In Arizona, at-fault rules apply to car accidents
In Arizona, the insurance company of the party who is determined to be at fault for the causation of the collision is held liable for all damages related to the accident. This means that it is especially important to determine fault correctly in a complex situation.
If more than one party is determined to be at fault, comparative negligence will apply. This means that a percentage of fault will be assigned to each at-fault party. If, for example, a party is determined to be 33% at fault for the causation of an accident, they will be liable for 33% of all damages.
The use of an accident reconstruction expert will be helpful
In a complex accident such as a multi-car pileup, a great deal of evidence will need to be gathered. This could come from eyewitnesses, security cameras, mobile phone footage or police officer reports. Accident reconstruction experts can use all of this information to gain a more accurate understanding of which parties were at fault for the causation of the collision.
If you have been involved in a multi-car pileup in Arizona, it is important that you take early action so that you are able to gain the compensation that you deserve.