If you are in a car accident that involves three or more cars, determining the amount of blame for each driver can get complicated. In the majority of car accidents of this nature, the driver who is at the back of the collision started the chain reaction and is, therefore, at fault. The drivers of the second and third cars in the collision typically would be absolved of any responsibility. However, there are times when accidents aren't that straightforward, and each driver may be assigned a percentage of the blame.
Comparative negligence law in NJ
New Jersey is a comparative negligence state, which means that insurance companies can assign a percentage of blame to each driver after investigating the accident. If you are seeking reimbursement from your own insurance company, comparative negligence does not apply. It is only used in the event that you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit against another driver.
If you feel that you are being assigned an unfair percentage of the blame, you have a right to challenge the decision. You just need to be prepared for the possibility that the insurance company won't change its decision. Since insurance companies are in business to make money, agents are going to do all they can to limit the liability of their client.
Get strong legal advocates on your side
The experienced personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of Robert Olkowitz, P.C. are here to be an advocate for you. We aggressively pursue your right to fair compensation and defend you against being assigned any blame for the accident. If the medical bills, pain and suffering and lost time from work keeps you up at night with worry, we can help to ease your burdens. You are invited to contact our law office in Red Bank at any time to schedule an appointment to discuss your car accident case.