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Some accidents impact more than just one person. Whether it’s a multi-vehicle crash, a building collapse, or a defective product incident, events that cause harm to multiple people present unique legal challenges. If you or a loved one has been injured in a mass-casualty or multi-victim event, understanding how claims are handled can make a significant difference in your recovery—both physically and financially.
At Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, LLP, we’ve handled some of California’s most complex, high-stakes personal injury cases. We understand the dynamics of multi-victim claims and how to protect your rights when the outcome affects many.
Coordinating Claims in Complex Situations
When many people are injured in the same incident, it’s not just a matter of filing a lawsuit. Multiple insurance policies and several defendants may be involved, and different victims may experience different injuries. The legal process must address each claim fairly while ensuring no one is left behind or undercompensated.
Common multi-victim incidents include:
- Bus, truck, or commercial vehicle accidents
- Fires and explosions
- Structural failures (e.g., bridges, balconies, buildings)
- Mass transit derailments or aviation accidents
- Product defects (toys, tools, medical devices, etc.)
Depending on the circumstances, these cases often lead to consolidated litigation, such as class actions or mass torts. The court may decide to coordinate the cases to streamline discovery, pre-trial proceedings, or settlement negotiations. But even in those situations, each victim’s injuries and losses are evaluated individually.
Limited Insurance Funds and Shared Recovery
A significant concern in multi-victim cases is limited insurance coverage. When there are many claimants but only a single insurance policy available—such as in a truck crash or bus collision—the policy limits may not be enough to compensate every injured party fully.
California law allows for equitable distribution of insurance proceeds in these cases. This means funds may be divided among all injured victims based on factors like:
- The severity of injuries
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Future care needs
Our job as your attorneys is to ensure your claim is thoroughly documented and clearly demonstrates the full extent of your losses. That way, we can fight for your fair share in a crowded and competitive legal environment.
Determining Fault and Liability
One of the most complex aspects of multi-victim claims is figuring out who is responsible—and to what degree. Some incidents involve several negligent parties: a commercial driver, a vehicle manufacturer, a maintenance contractor, or a third-party vendor. Identifying all potentially liable parties increases the chances of recovering adequate compensation.
In some cases, public entities may also be involved, such as when a city bus is involved in a crash or a state agency maintains a failed roadway. Filing a claim against a government entity requires adhering to strict deadlines and legal procedures—something our firm handles with precision.
Why Experienced Representation Matters
Multi-victim claims are legally and logistically complex. They require in-depth investigations, coordination with other law firms, and often aggressive negotiation with multiple insurance carriers. If you’ve been injured in one of these incidents, having experienced legal counsel who can focus solely on your best interests is critical.
At Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, LLP, we don’t back down from high-profile or high-pressure cases. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for victims across California, and we’re known for our tenacity, preparation, and results.
Sacramento Car Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in a serious accident that harmed multiple people, you need strong representation from a firm that knows how to navigate these complicated cases. Call Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, LLP today for a free consultation. We’re ready to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
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