What To Do In A Multi-Car Accident from a Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents can be overwhelming, but multi-car accidents — also known as pile-ups or chain reaction crashes — are even more complex, even for a car accident attorney. Unlike two-car collisions, these accidents involve multiple vehicles, multiple drivers, and often multiple insurance companies, making it harder to determine fault and navigate the claims process as a Bel Air, MD truck accident lawyer can explain.

If you’ve been involved in a multi-car accident, understanding the right steps to take can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation for damages.

Step 1: Check For Injuries And Call 911

Your safety and the safety of others should always come first. After a multi-car accident:

Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries — like concussions or internal bleeding — may not be immediately obvious.

Call 911 as soon as possible. Emergency responders will assess injuries and provide medical care, while law enforcement will create a police report, which is crucial for insurance claims and legal matters.

Do not move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger, such as a burning vehicle or oncoming traffic.

Step 2: Move To Safety (If Possible)

If your car is still drivable and it is safe to do so, move it to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. If you cannot move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.

Step 3: Document The Scene

Since multi-car accidents involve multiple vehicles and different versions of events, gathering strong evidence is essential.

Take Photos & Videos – Capture:

• Damage to all vehicles involved
• License plates of all cars
• Road conditions, traffic signals, or signs
• Skid marks, debris, or weather conditions

Get Witness Statements – If bystanders or other drivers saw what happened, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements can help clarify the chain of events.

Obtain a Police Report – Ask the responding officers for a copy of the accident report or the report number. This document can be critical in proving fault.

Step 4: Exchange Information, But Avoid Admitting Fault

When speaking to other drivers, passengers, or police officers:

Exchange names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details with all involved drivers.

DO NOT admit fault or say “I’m sorry.” Even if you think you contributed to the accident, fault may be shared among multiple drivers, and making statements could be used against you later.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine

Many injuries from multi-car accidents don’t appear right away. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries can take hours or days to show symptoms. Seeking medical attention immediately helps:

Ensure you don’t have hidden injuries
Create medical records that document your condition, which can be crucial for insurance claims

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible.
Stick to the facts, but do not speculate about fault.
If multiple insurance companies are involved, be prepared for delays and disputes as they determine liability.

Step 7: Understand How Fault Is Determined In Multi-Car Accidents

Determining fault in a multi-car accident can be complicated. Some common scenarios include:

Chain Reaction Rear-End Collisions – If a driver rear-ends another car, pushing it into a third vehicle, the initial driver may be held responsible. However, if multiple vehicles were following too closely, liability may be shared.

Intersection Crashes – If multiple cars enter an intersection due to a driver running a red light, several drivers may be partially at fault.

Highway Pile-Ups – These often occur due to bad weather, poor visibility, or sudden braking. Determining fault depends on driver behavior, road conditions, and accident reports.

In many cases, more than one driver may share responsibility under comparative negligence laws, meaning each driver is assigned a percentage of fault.

Step 8: Consider Legal Assistance

Because multi-car accidents involve multiple insurance companies, disputed liability, and possible injury claims, it’s wise to consult an experienced attorney to help deal with insurance companies after a car accident because they will:

Protect your rights and deal with insurance adjusters
Investigate the accident and determine fault
Help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage

Being involved in a multi-car accident can be stressful and overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take can make all the difference. Prioritizing safety, documenting evidence, and seeking medical attention will help protect both your health and your legal rights to take control of your case.

If you are dealing with insurance disputes or complex liability issues, consider speaking with a legal professional to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC for help today!