Sometimes, when one car gets into an accident, it can set off a chain reaction. The next thing you know, your car is getting used as a pinball across a major highway. These multi-vehicle crashes can cause all sorts of serious injuries. And there’s no limit to how much damage they can cause. This was certainly the case near Greensboro this past week.
A Jeep was driving northbound on US Highway 41 when they were hit by a car. The authorities reported that the Jeep was driving very slowly which is probably what caused them to be hit by the car in the first place. The impact of the first crash caused the Jeep to crash into another SUV.
When they crashed into the SUV, it caused both the Jeep and the SUV to catch on fire. Sadly, the three occupants of the Jeep were all killed in the accident. The driver of the SUV was taken to the hospital with what were reported as serious injuries. The driver of the third car that initially caused the collision suffered what were described as non-life-threatening injuries as well and was taken to the local hospital.
Aside from going extremely slow, the police aren’t sure what exactly caused the initial accident. The Jeep could’ve been going slow due to a mechanical failure. Or, they may have been lost or confused. Either way, their speed seems to have played a part in the crash.
The identities of the victims have not been released. The authorities were still waiting to alert the next of kin. There have been no charges filed as of yet but the investigation is still ongoing.
Can I file a wrongful death claim in North Carolina if my family member was killed in a multi-vehicle crash?
Yes, North Carolina law allows certain family members to pursue a wrongful death claim when a loved one is killed due to another party’s negligence. Under N.C. Gen. Stat. 28A-18-2, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file a claim to recover damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of companionship.
Who can be held liable in a multi-vehicle chain reaction crash in North Carolina?
Liability in a multi-vehicle crash can extend to any driver whose negligence contributed to the accident, including the driver who initiated the initial collision. In North Carolina, investigators will examine factors such as speed, road behavior, and mechanical failure to determine which parties bear responsibility.
How does North Carolina’s contributory negligence law affect my ability to recover damages after a crash?
North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are found even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it especially important to work with an experienced attorney who can build a strong case establishing that another party was solely responsible.
What should I do immediately after a serious multi-vehicle accident in North Carolina to protect my legal rights?
You should seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor, and contact law enforcement to ensure an official report is filed. It is also critical to consult with a personal injury or wrongful death attorney as soon as possible, since evidence can disappear quickly and North Carolina has a three-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims.
Can a family pursue a wrongful death claim in North Carolina even if no criminal charges have been filed against the at-fault driver?
Yes, a wrongful death civil claim in North Carolina is entirely separate from any criminal investigation or prosecution. The standard of proof in a civil case is lower than in a criminal case, meaning a family may successfully recover damages even if the at-fault driver is never criminally charged.
