Multi-vehicle car accidents can be frightening experiences and may result in significant injuries, especially if your vehicle sustains impact multiple times. If you suffered injuries in a multi-vehicle collision in North Dakota, you may wonder whether the involvement of two or more other drivers will affect your ability to recover compensation.
Regardless of the number of vehicles involved, North Dakota’s comparative fault statute will play a critical role in determining whether you can seek compensation for your injuries and other losses and, if so, how much.
What Is Comparative Fault?
Comparative fault is a legal idea that determines how much blame each person involved in an accident shares. In turn, each person’s share of fault determines whether they can recover compensation or have to pay damages to another person.
Here’s how the concept plays out under North Dakota law: If you’re involved in a multi-vehicle accident with four other drivers, a jury will determine percentages of fault based on the evidence. If your percentage of fault is less than the other drivers’ combined fault, you can recover compensation. If you are at least 50 percent at fault, however, you will be barred from recovering compensation for your losses.
Although North Dakota is a no-fault state for car accidents, your injuries resulting from a multi-car accident may exceed the limits of your coverage. If this is the case, an attorney can help you file claims against other at-fault parties to recover compensation.
Determining Fault in Multi-Car Accidents
In multi-car accidents, figuring out who is at fault can be tricky because many drivers might share some percentage of the responsibility. Some of the evidence used in determining fault includes:
- Police reports
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Videos from dash cams, traffic cameras, etc.
- Visible damage to vehicles
- Reports from accident reconstruction experts
When you retain a North Dakota car accident attorney, they will gather and review the available evidence to build a strong case for you and show that your percentage of fault, if any, is insufficient to bar you from recovering the compensation you deserve.
How Comparative Fault Affects Your Case
Comparative fault can significantly affect how much money you can get for your injuries following a multi-vehicle accident. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys will always fight to avoid blame and prevent you from receiving compensation. That’s why it’s so important to have a car accident lawyer to fight for your rights and ensure you aren’t held responsible for something you didn’t do. Experienced lawyers know how to work within North Dakota’s comparative fault system to get you the most money possible and hold other parties accountable.
Protecting Your Rights After a Multi-Car Accident
If you’ve been hurt in a multi-car accident, it’s crucial to take steps right away to protect your rights and make your case stronger:
- See a doctor right away for any injuries, even if they seem minor.
- Call the police about the accident and get a copy of their report.
- If you can, collect evidence at the scene, like photos of the damaged cars and witnesses’ information.
- Tell your insurance company about the accident, but don’t say it was your fault or give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first.
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
Contact Our Minot & Grand Forks Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you or someone you love has been in a multi-car accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., we offer free initial consultations to help you understand your legal choices and make intelligent decisions about your case. With offices in Minot and Grand Forks, we’re available to help clients across North Dakota. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the money you deserve.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks and Minot, as well as the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.