Three Factors That Complicate Multi-Vehicle Accident Claims
The majority of car accidents in Port St. Lucie occur between just two vehicles. Although these cases can become just as challenging as any either, they are typically simpler than other types of crashes. One party is at fault for the accident, and the other is the victim that incurred damages, or losses. When multiple vehicles are involved in a single accident, the situation becomes more complicated. Below are three of the top factors that complicate multi-vehicle crashes and how a car accident lawyer can help you overcome them.
Insurance Limits
All drivers in Florida are responsible for carrying minimum amounts of auto insurance. You will have to go through your own policy to claim damages first, but your policy limits likely will not be enough to fully cover the cost of your injuries. When this is the case, you can go through the negligent driver’s insurance, but even that policy will have limits. Accident victims from the same crash will also likely be trying to recover damages from the same policy, which will place an even smaller limit on how much you can claim yourself.
A lawyer will sort out the different insurance policies involved in the crash, and the limits of each so you know what you can claim.
Determining Liability
Determining which driver acted negligently and caused the crash is challenging after any accident, but it becomes even more difficult when multiple vehicles are involved. Each driver will be covered by an insurance policy and those insurers will continue to shift the blame to other drivers and their insurers to avoid liability. A lawyer will not let any insurer get away with these tactics and will collect evidence to prove which driver was at fault.
UM and UIM Coverage Becomes Even More Important
The rate of uninsured and underinsured motorists in Florida is one of the highest in the country. Estimates say that one in four drivers in the Sunshine State does not carry the proper amount of auto insurance. When an accident involves many drivers, the chances that one is not properly insured only increases. Dealing with an uninsured or underinsured motorist only further complicates the case.
Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) is not required for all drivers in Florida, but it is always recommended that drivers carry it. Whether you purchased UM and UIM when you first selected your policy or not, a car accident lawyer can help you pursue the appropriate compensation when a multi-vehicle crash involves an uninsured driver.
Call Our Car Accident Lawyers in Port St. Lucie Today
Being involved in a car accident is always stressful, but the aftermath of one involving multiple vehicles is even more confusing. If you have been injured, our Port St. Lucie car accident lawyers at Eighmie Law Firm, P.A. can help. We know how to collect evidence that proves liability and will negotiate on your behalf so you recover the fair settlement you deserve. Call us today at 772-905-8692 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Resource:
flhsmv.gov/insurance/