A multi-car collision in Louisiana can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure where to turn for answers. The chaos of multiple vehicles colliding often leads to confusion about who is responsible, and how victims can recover the compensation they need.
At Crescent City Personal Injury, our attorneys, led by John Radziewicz, understand how overwhelming car accidents and injuries caused by these situations can feel. We are here to bring clarity, protect your rights, and guide you through the complex process of determining fault after a multi-vehicle crash in New Orleans or anywhere in Louisiana.
What Causes Multi-Vehicle Accidents?
Multi-car crashes often start with one careless or reckless action, but many factors can contribute:
- Distracted driving (texting, reaching for items, adjusting controls)
- Rear-end collisions that push cars into one another
- Speeding or following too closely
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Poor weather conditions that reduce visibility
- Hazardous road conditions, such as construction zones or debris
Because so many variables are at play, investigators, insurance companies, and personal injury attorneys must carefully analyze the sequence of events before fault can be assigned.
Assigning Liability in a Multi-Car Accident
In Louisiana, liability usually falls on the driver who failed to uphold their duty of care and triggered the chain reaction. But in reality, fault is rarely that simple.
- Multiple drivers may share blame for a collision
- Some drivers may be victims of the domino effect rather than contributors
- Eyewitness accounts, physical evidence, and crash reconstruction are often necessary to untangle the sequence of events.
Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2323, the state follows a comparative fault system. This means each driver can be assigned a percentage of fault, and their financial recovery will be reduced by that percentage. For example, if you are found 20% responsible for a crash, your damages award will be reduced by 20%.
Why Is a Witness Important?
Impartial witnesses are invaluable in multi-car crash cases. Unlike drivers, who may try to avoid blame, bystanders often provide unbiased accounts of what they saw. Collecting names and contact information from witnesses at the scene can make a major difference in proving your case later.
Reporting the Incident
Calling the police is essential after a multi-vehicle collision. Officers will do the following:
- Secure the scene
- Gather statements
- Issue citations if traffic laws were broken
- Prepare an official crash report
That report often becomes a key piece of evidence in determining liability. In some cases, police may also review traffic cameras or nearby surveillance footage to build a clearer picture of what happened.
What Evidence is Needed to Prove Fault?
To succeed in a personal injury claim, you will need evidence that shows how the crash occurred and who bears responsibility. Useful evidence may include:
- The police crash report
- Eyewitness statements
- Photographs or video footage
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Medical records documenting your injuries
At Crescent City Personal Injury, our team takes the lead in gathering and preserving this evidence on your behalf. By doing the legwork for you, we give you the time and space to focus on recovery while we focus on holding the at-fault parties accountable.
What Are Recoverable Damages After a Multi-Car Accident?
Victims of multi-vehicle crashes may pursue compensation for:
- Medical bills and future care needs
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage and vehicle repairs
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (under CC Art. 2315.2) for surviving family members of fatal accident victims.
Why Legal Help Matters
Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts, especially in multi-car accidents where several drivers may point fingers at each other. Having a lawyer on your side means you are not left at the mercy of insurance adjusters.
Remember, Louisiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is just one year from the date of the accident (La. Civ. Code Art. 3492). Acting quickly is essential to preserve your rights.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers at Crescent City Personal Injury Today
Determining fault in a multi-car collision can be complex, but you do not have to face the process alone. Our team, led by attorney John Radziewicz, is here to stand up for you, build your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today at 504-608-0084 for a free consultation. We proudly serve clients in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who decides who is at fault in a multi-car accident?
Fault is determined through a combination of the police crash report, insurance company investigations, and sometimes the courts. Evidence such as traffic citations, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can all play a role.
2. Can more than one driver be at fault in a Louisiana multi-car crash?
Yes. Louisiana follows a comparative fault system under CC Art. 2323, meaning multiple drivers may share liability. Your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
3. What if I am partly responsible for the accident?
Even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover damages. For example, if you are found 25% responsible, you can still recover 75% of your total losses.
4. What evidence should I collect after a multi-car collision?
Gather as much information as possible, including photos of the scene, contact details for witnesses, insurance and license information from other drivers, and a copy of the police crash report.
5. How long do I have to file a claim after a multi-vehicle accident in Louisiana?
Under La. Civ. Code Art. 3492, you generally have one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation.
6. Do I need a lawyer if my insurance company is already investigating?
It is wise to consult with a lawyer. Insurance companies may not have your best interests in mind and may attempt to minimize payouts in multi-car cases. An attorney can advocate for you, ensure your rights are protected, and pursue the full compensation you deserve.