Who is Liable in a Multi-Vehicle Accident?

Were you involved in a multi-vehicle accident collision in South Carolina? These are often complex cases. You may be wondering: How does liability work for a multi-vehicle accident? In South Carolina, the party (or parties) who caused a crash through negligence can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. Our car accident lawyer in Florence, SC, provides a comprehensive guide to multi-vehicle crash liability in South Carolina.

South Carolina is a Fault-Based Motor Vehicle Accident State

South Carolina operates under a fault-based liability standard for all motor vehicle crashes, including multi-vehicle collisions. The driver found to be at fault for causing the crash is responsible for the damage. The fault is based on negligence. A driver whose negligence—failure to take due care—caused an accident can be liable for the damages. Other parties—such as trucking companies and highway road crews—may also bear liability for a crash.

A Modified Comparative Negligence Standard Applies

Not all multi-vehicle collisions in South Carolina are the fault of a single party. Our state uses a modified comparative negligence standard for apportionment of liability in these cases. Imagine you sustained $30,000 in damage in a multi-vehicle crash. If you are found to be 30% liable, you will bear 30% fault for your damages. The other driver would still be responsible for the remaining 70%. You can recover compensation if your fault is not a majority share. South Carolina has a 51% bar on recovery.

Every Multi-Vehicle Crash Requires a Thorough Investigation

Determining liability for a multi-vehicle crash in Florence or South Carolina is difficult. A thorough, detail-focused investigation is a must. A top-tier Florence, SC, car accident attorney can gather all the photographs, police reports, documents, records, and other evidence that you need to prove how and why your crash happened. When you have comprehensive information about the multi-vehicle collision, you will be able to prove fault and secure maximum financial compensation for your damages.

Be Proactive After a Multi-Vehicle Collision: Strict Deadlines Apply

You should notify your insurance carrier right away after a serious crash. Under South Carolina law (S.C. Code § 15-3-530(5)), a three-year statute of limitations applies. If you do not bring your claim on time, you will lose your right to seek compensation. Further, you do not want to fall behind in the claims. Consult with a Florence car crash lawyer right away.

Contact Our Multi-Vehicle Crash Attorney Today

At the Law Office of D. Craig Brown, LLC, our car crash lawyer in Florence has the skills, knowledge, and experience to handle complex multi-vehicle collisions. If you or your loved one was hurt in a multi-vehicle wreck, please do not hesitate to contact us today for your free, no-strings-attached case evaluation. From our Florence office, we handle multi-vehicle crashes across the region.