Who is Liable for Secondary Car Accident Injuries?
As if being injured in a car accident is not bad enough, the aftermath of the initial crash can be just as dangerous. While people are attempting to exit their damaged vehicles, summon help, and assess the damage, there is a substantial risk of a second accident occurring. Often, the very same conditions–such as lack of visibility–that contributed to the initial crash also contribute to the ongoing danger.
If you get into an accident, it is important that you take steps to minimize the danger, such as moving away from the roadway and activating your emergency flashers if they are still operational. Call an attorney once the immediate danger has passed and it is safe to do so, but do be mindful that it is important not to wait too long. Important evidence can quickly be covered up, especially during winter storms.
How Do Secondary Accidents Happen?
One of the biggest dangers after a car accident is the risk of being hit by a car after you have made it out of your vehicle. Car crashes tend to happen in places and at times when visibility is poor. Inclement weather that makes it difficult to see other cars on the road will also make it difficult to see people walking around by the side of the road. Sharp turns where accidents are common may also make it difficult for other drivers to even see that there has been an accident until they are quite close to it.
If you are not able to move your damaged vehicle out of the roadway, the risk increases that another driver will crash into it, especially in poor visibility. Moving as far from the road as you are able to can help reduce this risk. Unfortunately, there is sometimes no accounting for careless drivers.
Who is Liable for a Secondary Accident in Texas?
Depending on the specific facts of your case, the good news is that you may have options. Each driver is responsible for their negligence. In cases where the negligence of multiple drivers contributed to your injuries, you can have claims against both. In many cases, the driver who caused the initial accident could be at least partially liable for the secondary accident. You would not have gotten into the secondary accident at all had the first careless driver not left you on the side of the road in the first place.
Because the cause-and-effect relationship between the first accident, the second accident, and the injuries you suffered can be quite complex, you should consult an experienced personal injury attorney.
Call a Collin County Car Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a secondary car accident, your situation can feel confusing. Burress Injury Law can help by staging a complete investigation to determine who might be legally liable to you. Our experienced McKinney car accident attorneys are skilled at investigating complex car accidents and helping victims receive compensation from any responsible parties. Contact us at 214-726-0016 for a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.idrivesafely.com/driving-resources/how-to/first-on-scene/