Four car accident .

[wafaul]

What is the name of your state? What is the name of your state?CA
On 5/16/03 I was driving my 1978 Chevy truck in slow (20-30 mph) moving traffic when I heard a loud crash behind me,then I was rear ended .
What happened was car #1 hit car #2,which hit car #3,which hit me (#4) .
Damage to my truck was minor (bent bumper) and although I was shaken it was nothing compared to the other people/cars.
The police were summoned,information exchanged,and the driver of car #1 was most apolegetic and admitted everything was his fault .
Everybody acted civilised,I was instructed to notify my insurance company and told there may or may not be a police report.
I notified my insurance agent and he asked me if I wanted to file a claim,I have not yet .
Today I recieved a notice from #2 regarding my claim.
I would like my bumper fixed,have been advised to see a doctor.
Should I see a lawyer?What are my rights or liabilities?
Tia to anyone who takes the time to advise,waf .

 

[Kevin O'Keefe]

What is the name of your state? What is the name of your state?CA
On 5/16/03 I was driving my 1978 Chevy truck in slow (20-30 mph) moving traffic when I heard a loud crash behind me,then I was rear ended .
What happened was car #1 hit car #2,which hit car #3,which hit me (#4) .
Damage to my truck was minor (bent bumper) and although I was shaken it was nothing compared to the other people/cars.
The police were summoned,information exchanged,and the driver of car #1 was most apolegetic and admitted everything was his fault .
Everybody acted civilised,I was instructed to notify my insurance company and told there may or may not be a police report.
I notified my insurance agent and he asked me if I wanted to file a claim,I have not yet .Today I recieved a notice from #2 regarding my claim.
I would like my bumper fixed,have been advised to see a doctor.
Should I see a lawyer?What are my rights or liabilities?
Tia to anyone who takes the time to advise,waf .

Generally, and it is not always the case, in a rear end collision it is one of the following vehicles which is at fault, not the lead vehicle. Depending on the insurance laws in your state, I do not know if CA is a no fault state, the lead vehicle would have a claim against at one of the following vehicles insurance companies for property damage and any personal injuries. If someone is making a claim against you, then the appropriate thing is to turn it over to your insurance company.

Best thing to do is call a reputable local plaintiff's trial lawyer and run the situation by them. You can call the best at no expense and get helpful information. A good lawyer is not going to try to talk you into suing anyone or making a claim for damages you are not entitled. You'll get the straight scoop based on CA law and then make decisions in an informed fashion.

- Kevin

 

[RunningOnEmpty]

Car #1 is at fault for starting the chain reaction collision.

Do you you carry collision coverage or umpd coverage on your truck? If so, turn it over to your insurance company and let them do the investigation. They will order the police report. They will determine whether or not Car #1 has insurance. (if not, they will pay for your damage under your umpd coverage, if you carry it).
If Car #1 does have insurance, your insurance company will investigate whether or not Car #1 carries adequate Property Damage limits to pay for Car #2, Car #3 and your car. If so, they will request that Car #1's policy pay for your damages. If not, you should let your insurance company handle your damages under your Collision coverage, if you carry this coverage.

As far as being advised to go to the doctor.....You mentioned that you were shaken up, but did not mention any kind of injury. It would seem peculiar that you would wait for two weeks following the accident to go to the doctor, especially when you state your damage is minor. Of course you can go to the doctor if you feel it is necessary. You don't need anybody's permission to do this. Just be aware that both Car #1 and your own insurance company may question this.

 

[wafaul]

Thank you for your replies.
I don'nt think CA is a "no fault state",and yes I carry collision and UMPD .
Anyway,car #1's insurance co. called and stated their client was responsible for the whole incident which I think is pretty obvious but I have heard of people changing stories after the fact.I was asked about rental car and expenses and a claims person is coming to look at my rear bumper .
I have declined to see a Doctor,I was advised that injuries can appear weeks or months later,but I feel OK right now.
I will update as to what happens.
Thanks again,Waf