When Multiple Vehicles Are Involved, Who Pays?
Intersections are one of the most common locations for multi-vehicle accidents. A single moment of negligence—whether it’s a driver running a red light, tailgating, or making an illegal turn—can trigger a chain reaction crash involving multiple vehicles.
If you were injured in an intersection pile-up and weren’t at fault, it’s important to understand how fault is determined and what compensation you may be entitled to. At Scholle Law, we help accident victims navigate complex multi-vehicle claims, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve.
What Causes Multi-Car Crashes at Intersections?
Intersection pile-ups often happen because of a single act of negligence, but once multiple vehicles are involved, determining fault becomes more complicated. The most common causes include:
🚦 Running a Red Light or Stop Sign – A driver failing to stop at an intersection can set off a chain reaction crash.
🚗 Rear-End Collisions – Tailgating or distracted driving often leads to one car slamming into another, triggering a pile-up.
⚠️ Left-Turn Accidents – Drivers making unsafe left turns may cut off traffic, leading to T-bone or multi-vehicle crashes.
🌧️ Poor Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, or ice can cause drivers to lose control and collide with multiple vehicles.
📵 Distracted Driving – A driver looking at their phone, GPS, or adjusting the radio may not notice traffic slowing down.
🚛 Large Trucks or Commercial Vehicles – A truck failing to stop in time can cause a massive pile-up, crushing smaller vehicles.
When multiple vehicles are involved, Scholle Law investigates every detail to ensure you aren’t wrongly blamed for the accident.
Who Is Liable in an Intersection Pile-Up?
Assigning liability in a multi-car crash can be complex, as more than one driver may share fault. Possible liable parties include:
- The Driver Who Started the Chain Reaction – If a single driver caused the initial impact, they are usually primarily at fault.
- Other Negligent Drivers – If additional drivers were speeding, tailgating, or failed to react properly, they may share liability.
- A Commercial Vehicle Company – If a truck driver caused the crash, their employer may be responsible for damages.
- A Government Entity – If poor road design, malfunctioning signals, or lack of signage contributed to the crash, the city or state may be liable.
At Scholle Law, we gather all necessary evidence to prove exactly who is liable and protect you from unfair blame.
How to Prove You Weren’t at Fault
Insurance companies often try to shift blame in multi-car accidents, but strong evidence can prove your innocence. Our legal team collects:
📸 Accident Scene Photos & Videos – Capturing damage patterns, skid marks, and traffic signals.
🚔 Police Reports & Traffic Citations – If officers cited another driver for running a red light, speeding, or reckless driving, it strengthens your claim.
🎥 Traffic Camera & Dashcam Footage – Video evidence may show who caused the initial impact.
📞 Cell Phone Records – If a driver was texting or on a call, this may prove distracted driving.
🛠️ Vehicle Damage Analysis – Damage positioning can reveal which vehicles hit first.
👀 Eyewitness Testimonies – Independent witnesses can confirm how the crash unfolded.
At Scholle Law, we build a bulletproof case, so you get the compensation you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured in a multi-vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for:
💰 Medical Expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
🚗 Vehicle Repairs or Actual Cash Value – Compensation for the damage or Total Loss Value done to your car.
💼 Lost Wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income.
💔 Pain and Suffering – Compensation for emotional distress, PTSD, and reduced quality of life.
⚖️ Punitive Damages – If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving under the influence—you may be entitled to additional compensation.
At Scholle Law, we fight to maximize your recovery and ensure you aren’t left paying out of pocket.
Steps to Take After an Intersection Pile-Up
After a multi-car accident, follow these steps to protect your claim:
1️⃣ Call 911 Immediately – Request emergency assistance and an official police report.
2️⃣ Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear.
3️⃣ Document the Scene – Take photos of all vehicles, traffic signals, and road conditions.
4️⃣ Get Witness Contact Information – Their statements may help prove fault.
5️⃣ Do Not Admit Fault – Anything you say can be used against you by insurance companies.
6️⃣ Contact Scholle Law – Our legal team will investigate, negotiate, and fight for your full compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is fault determined in a multi-car accident?
Investigators analyze vehicle damage, police reports, witness statements, and video footage to determine who was responsible.
Can I still recover compensation if multiple drivers were at fault?
Yes. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault.
What if the insurance company tries to blame me for the crash?
Insurance companies often shift blame to avoid payouts. Scholle Law fights back with evidence to prove you weren’t at fault.
How long do I have to file a claim in Georgia?
You typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim, but acting quickly strengthens your case.
Call Scholle Law for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in an intersection pile-up that wasn’t your fault, don’t let the insurance company dictate your future. Call Scholle Law today at (866) 592-1296 or fill out the contact form on this page to schedule your free consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing until you win your case.
Let Scholle Law fight for the compensation you deserve.