Minnesota car accidents involving more than two vehicles often raise complicated questions about who is to blame for the wreck. Many times, the bad weather that strikes the Twin Cities plays a big role in causing multiple-vehicle collisions, but driver mistakes could still occur. An investigation may conclude that someone was going too fast for conditions or following a vehicle too closely.
Rear-end collisions
All drivers have a duty to maintain a safe following distance and pay attention for unexpected events ahead of their vehicles. For this reason, rear-end collisions are almost always the fault of the driver that struck the vehicle in front of it.
In multiple-vehicle car collisions, the rear-end rule is not so easily applied. Many vehicle pileups involve a series of rear-end collisions. Some of the impacts force vehicles into contact with those in front of them even if they had originally managed to stop without striking another vehicle.
Evidence collection
Multiple-vehicle collisions present enhanced safety hazards to the victims in the moments following the crash. Generally, first responders recommend that people stay in their vehicles until the event is over because you could get hit by another car if you exit your car too quickly.
Ideally, you will stay in your vehicle until a first responder evaluates you and helps you get out. At that point, if you are able, use your smartphone to take pictures of the accident scene.
Collect images of:
- Vehicle damage
- All vehicles involved or those closest to you
- Road conditions
- License plates
- Your injuries
You should also record your first impression about what happened to you while the events are fresh in your mind. All of the information that you collect could clarify what happened and possibly prove that you were the victim of another driver’s negligence.