Have you been injured in a multi-vehicle accident? If so, call our Appleton multi-vehicle accident lawyers at (920) 221-7110 for a free consultation today. We have over 32+ years of experience winning cases for our clients. Let us fight for you and get the compensation you deserve.
What is a Multi-Vehicle Accident?
A multi-vehicle accident is an auto accident involving more than two cars. These accidents can involve any combination of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and bicycles.
These accidents typically occur when one driver causes a chain reaction by crashing into the vehicle in front of them. This type of accident increases the chance of serious injuries due to the increased speed and number of vehicles involved.
Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Multi-vehicle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors. They often involve:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or other activities that take a distracted driver’s attention off the road can lead to serious accidents.
- Reckless Driving: Excessive speeds and tailgating put other drivers at risk.
- Drowsy Driving: Falling asleep at the wheel is one of the leading causes of these accidents.
- Drunk Driving: Drunk drivers lack the coordination to drive safely, putting all on the road at risk of the driver's errors.
What to Do After a Multi-Vehicle Accident in Appleton
If you’ve been involved in a multi-vehicle accident in Wisconsin, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and your family. These include:
- Call 911: You should call 911 immediately after the accident so that medical personnel can be dispatched to the scene if needed.
- Gather Information: Get the names, contact information, and insurance details of all drivers involved in the accident. If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their information as well.
- Take Pictures: Take pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident and any visible injuries you sustained as a result of the crash. This can help prove your case if you decide to file a personal injury claim.
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Contact an Appleton Multi-Vehicle Accident Attorney:
Goldberg & Loren's auto accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
How Common Are Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Appleton?
In 2017, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation reported that there were over 5,000 multi-vehicle crashes statewide, a 3.2% increase from 2016.
Appleton is home to numerous busy highways and intersections where multi-vehicle accidents are more likely to occur due to high levels of traffic.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, there was an average of 14 fatal car accidents per year since 2017 in Outagamie County. [1]
How to File a Multi-Vehicle Accident Claim in Appleton
If you’ve been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. To file a claim, follow the steps below:
- Collect Evidence: Gather as much evidence as possible such as photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical records.
- File a Claim: File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, as well as your own, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Negotiate: The insurance companies will likely try to negotiate a settlement that is lower than what you deserve; an experienced attorney can help ensure you get the maximum compensation for your losses.
Our personal injury law firm can help if you've been involved in a multi-vehicle accident. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process and provide support. We have expertise in handling these types of cases and can help you navigate legal obstacles.
We will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case for you. Our priority is to protect your rights and fight for maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Who Can Be Considered Liable for A Multi-Vehicle Accident in Appleton
In a multi-vehicle accident in Appleton, multiple parties may be held liable for the damages caused. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, any of the following could be considered liable:
- The Driver: The driver is typically held responsible for their actions if they were found to be at fault. This includes distracted or reckless drivers who cause multi-vehicle accidents. It is possible that multiple parties will be held at fault for tje accident.
- The Owner: If the vehicle was owned by a business or another person, they could be held liable for any damages caused if it can be proven that the driver was acting on behalf of the owner at the time of the crash.
- Manufacturer: If a defect in the vehicle was found to be the cause of an accident, then its manufacturer may also face liability.
- Weather Conditions: If extreme weather conditions, such as snow or ice, were found to be a contributing factor in the crash, then the government agency responsible for maintaining the roads could face liability.
What Damages Can I Recover from A Multi-Vehicle Accident in Appleton
When filing an accident injury claim for a multi-vehicle accident in Appleton, you may be able to recover various types of damages. These include both economic and non-economic damages, such as the following:
- Medical Expenses: You may be able to recover any medical expenses incurred as a result of your injuries, including hospital bills and prescription costs.
- Lost Wages: If you were unable to work due to your injuries, then you may be able to recover lost wages from the at-fault party.
- Pain and Suffering: You may also be eligible for compensation for any physical or emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: Punitive damages are meant to punish defendants for their grossly negligent or intentional conduct and set an example to deter others. [2]
- Property Damage: You may be able to recover any damage done to your vehicle or property as a result of the multi-vehicle accident. This includes damage to personal items in the car, such as clothes and electronics.
- Rehabilitation Costs: If you require ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation as a result of your injuries, you may be able to recover those costs in your settlement.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries prevent you from performing certain duties or activities, such as providing emotional and physical support to your spouse, you may be eligible for loss of consortium damages.
- Legal Fees: Depending on the circumstances, you may also be able to recover any legal fees associated with filing a claim for a multi-vehicle accident.
Contact Our Appleton Multi-Vehicle Accident Lawyers Today
When you find yourself as an accident victim with broken bones and facing the aftermath of a multi-vehicle collision, seeking the guidance of an Appleton personal injury lawyer with experience becomes your best option.
With a proven record of success in handling personal injury lawsuits, our lawyers at Goldberg & Loren can help you navigate the complexities of the legal process. From gathering evidence and assessing liability for the accident to filing a third-party claim for financial compensation, our skilled attorneys will understand the intricacies of your case.
Contact our accident lawyers today and take the necessary steps toward rebuilding your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, you have up to three years from the date of the accident to file a claim for a multi-vehicle accident in Appleton. This time limit is known as the Statute of Limitations, and it varies from state to state.
If you do not file a claim within this timeframe, you may not be able to seek compensation for your losses. It is important that you contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
After a multi-vehicle accident, it is important to remain calm and collect as much information as possible. If you are able, exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the crash.
Take pictures of any damage done to your vehicle or property. It can also be helpful to document statements from witnesses and record your own account of the incident.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not think your injuries are severe.
Can I Get Compensation for Damages on A Multi-Vehicle Accident in Appleton
If you qualify for compensation, the amount you may be able to recover will depend on the severity of your injuries, the extent of your property damage, and other factors.
At Goldberg & Loren, our Appleton personal injury attorneys have extensive experience in multi-vehicle accident cases and can help you understand what types of damages you may be eligible for. We will also work to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your losses.
Sources:
[1] DOT, W. (n.d.). Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Wisconsin Department of Transportation. https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/home.aspx
[2] What Are Punitive Damages? Purpose, Cap, Calculation, and Example. (2022, August 1). Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/punitive-damages.asp
We Represent Those Who Have Suffered a Multi-Vehicle Accident Injury in the Following Cities and Communities Near Appleton, Wisconsin.
- Ashwaubenon, WI
- Black Creek, WI
- Brillion, WI
- Chilton, WI
- Combined Locks, WI
- De Pere, WI
- Grand Chute, WI
- Hilbert, WI
- Hortonville, WI
- Kaukauna, WI
- Kimberly, WI
- Little Chute, WI
- Menasha, WI
- Neenah, WI
- New London, WI
- Omro, WI
- Oneida, WI
- Oshkosh, WI
- Seymour, WI
- Sherwood, WI
- Winneconne, WI
- Wrightstown, WI
- Brown County
- Calumet County
- Outagamie County
- Winnbego County
