Pile-Up/ Multi Car Accident Lawyer in Columbus | Kisling, Nestico & Redick
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Being involved in a car accident with one car can be life changing, but an accident with multiple cars can become overwhelming. KNR is here to guide you.

Multi-Car Accidents in Columbus, OH

Multi-car accidents, often called pile-ups, are among the most devastating and complex collisions. These incidents frequently result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and a challenging path to securing compensation. Understanding your rights and next steps is essential if you’ve been involved in a pile-up in Columbus.

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, our experienced multi-car accident attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call our Columbus car accident lawyers at (614) 487-8669 or complete our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation today.

What Is a Multi-Car Accident?

A multi-car accident occurs when three or more vehicles are involved in a single collision. These accidents often start with an initial crash that creates a chain reaction, leading to additional collisions. Multi-car accidents are common in situations like:

  • Highway Pile-ups: These typically happen at high speeds and are exacerbated by factors such as poor visibility, sudden braking, or adverse weather conditions like rain, ice, or fog.
  • Intersection Collisions: Multi-car accidents often occur at busy intersections when one vehicle runs a red light or stop sign, causing a ripple effect of crashes.
  • Rear-End Chains: A single rear-end collision can set off a chain reaction, especially in stop-and-go traffic or congested areas.

Determining fault in a multi-car accident is complex, as multiple drivers and contributing factors may be involved. Investigating how the collision unfolded is key to establishing liability and recovering damages.

Read our Guide to Car Accident Liability in Ohio

What to Do After a Multi-Car Accident

The chaotic nature of a pile-up often leaves victims unsure of how to proceed. To ensure your safety and strengthen your claim, take these steps:

At the Scene of the Accident

  • 1. Stay Put: Remain at the scene until authorities arrive and give you permission to leave. Leaving prematurely can lead to legal consequences.
  • 2. Prioritize Safety: If injured, stay in your vehicle until help arrives. If uninjured and it’s safe to do so, move to a secure location to avoid further harm.
  • 3. Call 911: Report the accident and request police and medical assistance. A police report will be crucial for your case.
  • 4. Document the Scene: Take photos of all vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries.

Collect Essential Information

In the aftermath of a multi-car accident, gathering comprehensive information is crucial for building a strong claim. The more details you collect at the scene, the better equipped you will be to protect your rights. Make sure to document the following:

  • Driver and Passenger Information: Write down the full names, phone numbers, home addresses, and email addresses of all drivers and passengers involved. This information will help identify witnesses and clarify each party’s roles.
  • Insurance Details: Request the insurance company name, policy number, and contact information from all drivers involved. If possible, verify the information by taking a photo of their insurance card.
  • Witness Accounts: Speak to any bystanders or other drivers who may have witnessed the accident. Ask for their names, phone numbers, and addresses. If they’re willing, take a brief recorded statement on your phone or ask them to write down what they saw.
  • Police Details: Note the names and badge numbers of responding officers. Ensure you obtain the police accident report number, which will include critical information about the crash and is often necessary for filing a claim.

Seek Medical Attention

In multi-car accidents, injuries are often more severe due to the compounding forces of multiple collisions. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention as some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

When seeking medical care, keep detailed records of:

  • Treatment Plans and Follow-Ups: Obtain written documentation of your diagnosis, treatment plan, and any required follow-up visits. Follow through on all medical advice to prevent the insurance company from questioning the severity of your injuries.
  • Medical Bills and Prescriptions: Keep copies of every medical bill, prescription receipt, and invoice for medical equipment or therapies. These documents will help quantify your financial losses.
  • Pain Journal: Maintain a daily journal to record how your injuries impact your life. Note any physical pain, emotional distress, or limitations on your ability to work, exercise, or perform daily tasks. This journal can be critical evidence in demonstrating the full scope of your suffering.

Don’t delay seeking treatment. Insurance companies often argue that gaps in care indicate a lack of serious injury.

Be Cautious About Statements

What you say in the aftermath of a pile-up can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Be mindful of how and with whom you communicate:

  • At the Scene: Avoid making statements about fault or apologizing, even if you feel partially responsible. Comments like, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you,” can be interpreted as admitting fault and used against you later. Stick to exchanging necessary information and describing facts to the police.
  • To Insurance Companies: If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, don’t provide a recorded statement or discuss the accident in detail. Their goal is to minimize their payout; anything you say could be taken out of context. Direct all communication to your attorney.
  • Social Media: Refrain from posting about the accident on social media platforms. Photos, comments, or updates about your injuries could be misconstrued or used by insurers to devalue your claim.

The safest course of action is to let your attorney handle all communications. They can ensure your statements are clear, concise, and focused on supporting your case.

Read What to Do After a Columbus Car Accident

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Dealing with the aftermath of a multi-car accident can be overwhelming. From navigating insurance claims to understanding liability in complex cases, having an experienced car accident lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Here’s how a skilled attorney can help you:

Determine Liability in Multi-Car Accidents

Multi-car accidents often involve several parties, and determining fault can be complicated. A lawyer can investigate the accident scene and identify all liable parties.

Handle Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often focus on protecting their bottom line, which can mean offering lowball settlements or denying claims. A lawyer can communicate and negotiate directly with insurance adjusters on your behalf and push back on unfair tactics so you can receive the compensation you deserve.

Evaluate the Full Scope of Your Damages

Accidents often result in more than just immediate medical bills and vehicle repair costs. A lawyer can assess the full impact of the crash, including the economic and non-economic damages.

Perhaps most importantly, an attorney can give you peace of mind during a stressful time. While you focus on recovering from your injuries, your lawyer will handle the legal complexities of your case.

How KNR Can Help

At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, we understand the complexities of multi-car accident cases. Our team will:

    • • Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
    • • Identify liable parties, even in complex situations.
    • • Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation.
    • • Represent you in court if necessary.

We have decades of experience advocating for accident victims in Columbus and throughout Ohio. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress, KNR is here to fight for you.

Contact KNR for a Free Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured in a pile-up accident, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Let Kisling, Nestico & Redick provide the legal guidance and support you need.

Call us at (614) 487-8669 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. With KNR, you won’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on recovery.