Multi-vehicle car accidents are chain reaction accidents that involve three or more vehicles. Any car accident can bring stress, injuries, and property damage, but multi-vehicle accidents are especially complex because of the number of parties involved. In Pennsylvania, liability for a car accident will be determined using the modified comparative negligence rule with a threshold of 51%. This means that a driver can recover compensation even if that driver is found to be at fault; however, the driver may not recover compensation if their percentage of fault exceeds 50%. If you were involved in a multi-vehicle car accident, you should not hesitate to secure legal representation as you pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we have knowledgeable car accident attorneys who understand the nuances of multi-vehicle car accidents. We can investigate the facts of your case and may be able to help you prove the liability of the other drivers involved. Our lawyers are ready to represent you.
What Is Modified Comparative Negligence?
When determining fault in car accident claims, Pennsylvania adheres to the modified comparative negligence rule with a threshold of 51%. Under modified comparative negligence, every driver involved in the accident is assigned a certain percentage of fault, and all drivers who are less than 51% at fault are permitted to recover compensation. Any driver over 50% at fault for the accident cannot recover compensation from the other drivers.
Another important aspect of modified comparative negligence is that any compensation will be reduced by the respective driver’s percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 15% at fault in a chain reaction accident, and your damages are equal to $100,000, you can only recover $85,000 in compensation. When preparing your car accident claim, you and your lawyer must gather evidence proving the other drivers’ liability and minimizing your own to maximize your recoverable damages.
How Liability Is Determined in Pennsylvania Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Certain factors will be considered when assigning fault to the drivers in a multi-vehicle car accident. For example, some chain reaction accidents are caused by poor road conditions or inclement weather. Additionally, certain driving behaviors can contribute to a multi-vehicle accident. Such behaviors might include violating traffic laws, speeding, brake checking, or tailing the car in front. Another possible cause of chain reaction accidents is defective vehicles, which could result from poor maintenance or upkeep on the driver’s part. If the vehicle that caused the accident had worn down brake pads that had not been repaired in a reasonable time, the owner of that vehicle will most likely be found to have a higher percentage of fault than the other drivers
Evidence collected at the scene of the accident is often valuable when determining fault. Such evidence consists of police reports and eyewitness reports, documentation of skid marks on the road, and documentation of the vehicular damage. Sometimes, there is additional evidence in the form of videos from dashcams or surveillance cameras. Finally, some cases may require accident reconstruction experts to help recreate the scene of the incident in order to determine liability. Navigating the complexity of a multi-vehicle car accident can be difficult, but a talented car accident lawyer can help make the process smoother so victims can focus on recovering from the accident.
Contact the Talented Lawyers With Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., to Discuss Your Multi-Vehicle Accident Claim Today
Multi-vehicle car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving victims with injuries and other damages. A victim will only be able to recover compensation if his or her liability for the accident does not exceed 50%. If you were involved in a chain reaction accident, you should reach out to a knowledgeable car accident lawyer for assistance. Our team would be happy to discuss the facts of your case with you today.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we want to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation with a member of our team, you can fill out our online contact form or call (215) 822-7575 today.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
March 26, 2025
