Multi-vehicle crashes can be incredibly complex, involving several drivers, vehicles and potentially conflicting accounts of what happened. If you’ve been involved in a multi-car accident in Illinois, determining who is at fault is crucial to pursuing compensation for your injuries and damages.
At the Dinizulu Law Group, we understand the challenges of multi-vehicle crash cases. Proving fault is often not as straightforward as in two-car collisions, but with the right approach and evidence, you can build a strong case.
Here’s what you need to know about proving fault in a multi-vehicle crash in Illinois.
Understanding Fault in Illinois
Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that fault can be divided among multiple parties based on their level of responsibility for the accident. Even if you were partly at fault, you may still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
In a multi-vehicle crash, multiple drivers—or even other parties like trucking companies — can share fault. The goal is to prove who caused or contributed to the accident and to what degree.
Steps to Prove Fault in a Multi-Vehicle Crash
1. Gather Evidence at the Scene
The first step after a multi-vehicle accident is to collect as much evidence as possible. This includes:
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Photographs of all vehicles involved, showing damages and their final positions
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Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals and signage
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Contact information of all drivers, passengers and witnesses
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Police report detailing the officers’ observations and any citations issued
This evidence can help reconstruct the accident and identify which driver’s actions led to the crash.
2. Review the Police Report
Police officers investigate multi-vehicle crashes and write a report summarizing their findings. The report may include:
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Statements from drivers and witnesses
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Diagrams of the accident scene
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Officers’ opinions on fault or citations given
While not definitive, the police report is an important piece of evidence that can support your case.
3. Identify Traffic Violations or Negligence
Fault often comes down to whether a driver violated traffic laws or acted negligently. Common causes in multi-vehicle crashes include:
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Tailgating or following too closely
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Running a red light or stop sign
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Unsafe lane changes or improper merging
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Distracted or impaired driving
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Speeding
If you can prove another driver committed one or more of these actions, it supports your claim that they were at fault.
4. Use Expert Analysis
Multi-vehicle accidents can be complicated, and sometimes the cause isn’t clear from the surface. Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the evidence, such as vehicle damage patterns, skid marks and timing, to piece together how the crash occurred.
An expert’s testimony can be crucial in proving fault, especially when multiple parties blame each other.
5. Consider Liability Beyond Drivers
In some multi-vehicle crashes, liability extends beyond just the drivers. For example, if a commercial truck was involved, the trucking company or maintenance provider may bear some responsibility. Similarly, a vehicle manufacturer could be liable if a defect contributed to the accident.
Your attorney can investigate these possibilities to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
Why Proving Fault Matters
Establishing fault is essential for recovering damages in a personal injury or property damage claim. The more clearly you can prove who caused the accident, the stronger your case will be when negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit.
Fault also affects how damages are calculated, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs.
How the Dinizulu Law Group Can Help
Multi-vehicle crash cases require careful investigation and a deep understanding of Illinois traffic laws and comparative negligence principles. At the Dinizulu Law Group, we guide you through the complex process, gather the necessary evidence, work with experts and fight to protect your rights.
If you’ve been in a multi-vehicle accident and want to know your options, call the Dinizulu Law Group at (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
