Recently, a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 93 in Canton, Massachusetts, left seven people hospitalized and raised important questions about determining fault in complex collisions. With four vehicles involved, understanding how Massachusetts’ comparative negligence law applies is crucial for victims seeking compensation. This legal framework assigns fault proportionally, meaning your ability to recover damages depends on your role in the crash.
In Massachusetts, comparative negligence laws provide a fair way to resolve disputes in accidents involving multiple drivers. To recover damages, your level of fault must not exceed 50%. If you were partially responsible, the amount you can recover will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Because determining liability in multi-vehicle accidents often involves nuanced legal arguments, consulting with an attorney can make all the difference.
What Is Comparative Negligence?
Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence system, codified in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 231, Section 85. This system ensures that fault is divided among all parties involved in an accident. You may recover damages even if you are partially at fault, but only if your level of responsibility does not exceed 50%.