How Is Fault Determined in a Brooklyn Multi-Vehicle Accident?
In January of 2026, Brooklyn News 12 reported that a man had suffered critical injuries after a multi-vehicle accident in the Bronx. Authorities say the crash occurred after a minivan driver “lost control” and sparked the chain-reaction crash. How do courts and crash investigators determine fault in these kinds of situations? What if you were involved in a multi-vehicle crash? You might want to explore these questions with a Brooklyn car accident attorney.
Minivan Driver Sparks Collision With Bus and Prius
Authorities say that a minivan driver veered into a Toyota Prius, causing the Prius to crash into a bus. The individual who suffered the worst injuries was riding in the minivan as a passenger, and he was ejected out of the vehicle after the impact with the Prius. First responders say that he is now in critical condition. Another unspecified individual suffered minor injuries.
By all accounts, it seems as if the minivan driver caused the crash by initially losing control and crashing into the Prius. However, crashes like these can be much more complex than they appear at first glance. In multi-vehicle crashes, different drivers can contribute varying levels of fault.
How Does Comparative Negligence Work in New York?
New York follows a system of pure comparative negligence. In other words, courts recognize the fact that different drivers can contribute to the same crashes in different ways. Suppose three vehicles collide with each other. In this situation, one driver might be 50% responsible while the other two are each 25% responsible. Even subtle types of fault can factor into the final equation. For example, someone might be 10% at fault because they were driving 2 miles above the speed limit.
Crucially, New York’s system allows you to recover compensation even if you partially contributed to your own crash. Unlike other states that follow “modified” comparative negligence rules, New York’s “pure” system allows you to sue even if you were 99% responsible for your own accident.
Can I Sue Even if I Caused My Own Car Accident in Brooklyn?
You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit even if you were the main cause of your own accident. That said, you should know that New York’s no-fault system prevents you from suing anyone unless you’ve suffered serious injuries.
Key Takeaways
- New York follows a system of “comparative negligence” when it comes to multi-vehicle crashes
- Different drivers can contribute to the same crash in different ways
- You can file a claim even if you partially contributed to your own crash
Can a Brooklyn Auto Accident Lawyer Help After a Multi-Vehicle Crash?
If you’re recovering from injuries after a multi-vehicle crash in Brooklyn, you might want to speak with a car accident lawyer. These legal professionals may be able to help you determine who was to blame for your injuries. Remember, you can probably file a claim even if you partially caused your own injuries. Discuss this topic further with Cohan Law, PLLC today.
Source:
brooklyn.news12.com/man-critically-injured-in-multi-vehicle-crash-in-gowanus