MULTI-VEHICLE PILEUPS

Hibu Websites • March 31, 2021

MULTI-VEHICLE PILEUPS

12 Mar, 2018

HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED IN A MULTI-VEHICLE PILEUP?

It is common for some of the most serious car/truck accidents to involve multiple vehicle pileups. This is especially true on the interstates. Often there are several persons at fault. When there are serious injuries an issue arises as to who will pay the damage so that the victim is fully compensated.

There is often inadequate insurance to cover all of the damages in a freeway pileup. However, you can recover 100% of your damages from anyone who is more than 50% at fault in causing the accident and injuries. For example, if there is an accident involving your car, two other cars, and a truck where the truck driver was 60% at fault, the truck driver's insurance company would be responsible for the full damages even though 40% of the fault might rest with the other two drivers. The truck driver's insurance company can then sue the other two drivers to recover that portion of the damage caused by those drivers. The reason this is allowed is that there is strong social policy to insure that if a person or company causes the majority of the damage that the victim is fully compensated by those principally at fault.

Because multi-vehicle accidents involve complex factual issues to determine who was at fault, it is best to investigate the accident immediately after it has happened. An attorney is in a poor position to perform that complex investigation personally because he or she cannot be a witness on your behalf at trial and still represent you in the case. Therefore, our firm uses an investigator to assemble all the facts.

In summary, a prompt investigation on a complex crash will often allow your attorney to properly establish fault and the full extent of your damages. 
Interstate accident with multiple cars on I-80 in West Des Moines, IA.
By 7016408197 July 21, 2025
Injured in a multi-car pileup? Our West Des Moines auto accident attorneys explain how fault is determined and how to get full compensation. Call for a free case review.
Man with shoulder injury  that occurred at work in Waukee, IA.
By 7016408197 July 7, 2025
Wondering how your workers’ comp rate is calculated in Waukee, Iowa? Time off for vacation, illness, or holidays can lower your benefits. Learn why reviewing your rate with experienced workers’ comp attorneys matters to protect your income after an injury.
River with warning sign that is hidden by tall grass and weeds that caused a death of 2 Iowan's.
By 7016408197 June 25, 2025
Boating accidents on Iowa’s waterways can turn deadly in an instant. In Des Moines, trust LLDDC Law—experienced boat injury and wrongful death attorneys—to investigate fast before crucial evidence disappears. The call is free. No fee unless we win.
Motorcycle laying in the middle of a highway after an accident in West Des Moines, IA
By 7016408197 June 8, 2025
Injured in a motorcycle accident in West Des Moines? Learn why immediate action is critical and how LLDDC Law’s motorcycle accident attorneys can protect your rights and fight for compensation.
Auto Accident Insurance | Ankeny, IA
By 7016408197 May 26, 2025
Injured in a car accident in Ankeny caused by an uninsured driver? Learn how LLDDC Law’s experienced auto accident attorneys can help you recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage.
Work Injury Therapy | Des Moines, IA
By 7016408197 May 10, 2025
Injured at work in Des Moines? Learn your rights to paid time off for medical appointments and how LLDDC’s experienced workers compensation attorneys can help you get the benefits you deserve.
Car Accident Settlements | Urbandale, IA
By 7016408197 April 27, 2025
Injured in a car accident in Urbandale? Learn how a personal injury attorney can help you secure a settlement that covers future medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call LLDDC Law today!
Shoulder Injury | West Des Moines, IA
By 7016408197 April 4, 2025
Concerned about a work injury aggravating a pre-existing condition? In West Des Moines, IA, Iowa law may still entitle you to workers' compensation benefits. Learn how prior injuries impact claims and what steps to take to protect your rights. Read more today!
Car Accident | Des Moines, IA
By 7016408197 March 23, 2025
When it comes to car insurance, many people think primarily about liability coverage—insurance that covers others if you’re at fault in an accident. However, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is equally important, as it protects you if an accident leaves you injured by a driver with inadequate coverage. What is Underinsured Motorist Coverag e? Underinsured motorist coverage is designed to safeguard you and your family from the financial burden of an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have sufficient insurance to cover your damages. Here’s how it works: Imagine you’re at a local Des Moines sports event. After parking, you’re walking across the lot when a vehicle accidentally hits you, causing injuries. If that driver has no insurance or only minimal coverage, their policy may fall far short of what you need to cover medical bills, lost income, and other expenses. Underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy steps in to fill the gap, helping you recover the full amount necessary to cover your damages. This protection applies whether you’re in your vehicle or, as in this example, outside of it—what matters is that your injuries resulted from the actions of an underinsured driver. How Much Underinsured Motorist Coverage Should You Carry? The amount of underinsured motorist coverage you carry is a personal choice, but it’s worth considering a higher limit. In Iowa, insurance companies are allowed to sell this coverage with a minimum limit of $20,000 per person. However, relying on minimum coverage could leave you financially vulnerable in a serious accident. Insurance agents often recommend high liability limits to protect others in case you cause an accident but may suggest lower UIM coverage to keep your costs down. Yet, underinsured coverage is specifically for your protection and the well-being of your loved ones. It doesn’t make much sense to carry more coverage for others’ injuries than for your own, yet this is common due to the way policies are structured. Reviewing Your Policy: Are You Adequately Protected? Take a moment to review your policy or discuss it with your agent to ensure you’re not underinsured. Here are a few questions to consider: • Does my underinsured coverage match my liability coverage? If not, you might want to ask why, especially if your liability limits are significantly higher. • Would my current underinsured coverage be enough in a serious accident? Consider your financial situation, family needs, and potential medical costs to make sure your coverage is sufficient. If you find that your uninsured/underinsured coverage is significantly lower than your liability coverage, it might be time to ask questions and re-evaluate your options. Prioritizing adequate underinsured motorist coverage is an investment in peace of mind, ensuring that you’re better protected, no matter who is at fault in an accident.
Work Injury Sign | Waukee, IA
By 7016408197 March 8, 2025
Injured workers in Waukee may be asked to travel far for medical exams, but is it required? Learn your rights and how a workers’ compensation attorney at LLDDC Law can help you challenge unreasonable travel demands.