Steps to Take After a Multi-Vehicle Crash

Multi-vehicle accidents can cause catastrophic injuries to the drivers and passengers involved. If you’ve been involved in a multi-car crash, your vehicle may be hit multiple times from different directions. You may also suffer serious injuries from flying glass, leaking chemicals, and crushed metal that results from multi-car collisions.

Pile-ups are chain-reaction events that can cause bodily injury and property damage to several drivers and passengers in different vehicles. Determining fault can be complex, which makes having an experienced auto accident attorney by your side essential. 

A skilled attorney from Catalano Law can thoroughly investigate your multi-car crash to determine who is liable for your injuries and help you seek compensation.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Central NY and the Southern Tier

Multi-vehicle accidents are an unfortunate reality on the roads of Central New York. These collisions involve numerous vehicles and cause significant harm to those involved. Two common causes of multi-car accidents are rear-end collisions and pile-ups.

• Rear-end Collision: A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another car. The impact can push the affected vehicle into the path of oncoming traffic or the rear of another car, leading to a cascade of collisions.

These accidents frequently occur in situations involving heavy traffic, icy roads, or sudden stops due to traffic signals or construction zones. In Central New York, winter conditions and congested roadways can make rear-end collisions more likely.

• Pile-Ups: Pile-ups typically occur on highways and involve multiple vehicles colliding with one another due to reduced visibility or slippery road conditions. Fog, heavy rain, or snowstorms can significantly impair drivers’ ability to see other vehicles and anticipate sudden changes in traffic patterns.

In a pile-up, vehicles often become entangled, and secondary collisions can result from drivers being unable to react in time to avoid the initial accident. These incidents can be particularly dangerous due to the high speeds involved and the increased likelihood of serious injuries or fatalities.

Steps to Take After a Multi-Vehicle Accident

After a multi-vehicle accident, it is crucial to take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved, gather necessary information, and protect your legal rights. Take the following steps after involvement in a multi-vehicle accident:

• Assess your safety: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If it is safe, remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until emergency responders arrive, especially if you are on a busy highway.

• Call 911: Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance if necessary. Police will respond to the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report, which can be valuable when filing insurance claims or pursuing legal action.

• Move to a safe location: If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic to minimize the risk of additional collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident.

• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including the positions of the vehicles, any visible damage, road conditions, and traffic signs or signals. This visual evidence can be helpful when determining liability and supporting insurance claims or legal actions.

• Exchange information: Collect contact and insurance information from all involved parties, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses. This information should include names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy numbers.

• Obtain a copy of the police report: Request a copy of the official accident report from the responding law enforcement agency. The New York State Police website provides guidance for obtaining your report based on where the incident occurred. The report will include important details about the accident, such as the officer’s observations, statements from involved parties and witnesses, and any citations issued.

• Seek medical attention: Even if you do not have apparent injuries, seeking medical attention after an accident is essential. Some injuries, like a traumatic brain injury or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can cause complications later. A medical record of injuries can also support insurance claims or legal actions.

• Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide them with information about the accident, including the police report number and the contact information of other involved parties.

• Keep a record: Maintain detailed records of any expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Share this documentation with your attorney, as it can be crucial when seeking compensation through insurance claims or legal action.

• Consult an attorney: In the case of a multi-vehicle accident, determining liability and navigating insurance claims can be complex. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide guidance and representation to protect your rights and interests throughout the process.

Choose Catalano Law

Catalano Law has been helping victims of car accidents in Syracuse and the surrounding areas for more than two decades. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who are not afraid to take on insurance companies and other responsible parties. Our aggressive representation ensures that your rights are protected, and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other losses.

When you choose Catalano Law for your multi-vehicle accident case, you can trust that you are in capable hands with a legal team dedicated to securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Arrange your free consultation today.