Pile-ups, frequently referred to as multi-car collisions, are accidents involving three or more cars. Because there are so many vehicles involved and there is a chance for chain reactions, these accidents may be especially hazardous. As you read on, we’ll examine the facts around multi-car incidents and offer some advice concerning what to do in such a situation.
What is a multi-car collision?
An accident involving numerous cars on the road is referred to as a multiple-car collision. They are one of the worst types of traffic crashes, typically happening on high-capacity, high-speed roads like highways.
Multi-car collisions are more likely to happen when rain, snow, fog, or compromised road visibility are present. In these conditions, drivers need to be even more cautious and vigilant. Some motorists still don’t completely understand how risky the roadways are, though.
Drivers frequently do not have much time to decide whether to miss the cars in front of them in multi-car accidents. Most terrified drivers brake too late, veer into opposing lanes, and skid as a result. Sometimes, when trying to avert a collision, automobiles veer into oncoming traffic, only to set off a terrible chain reaction that increases the pileup. It comes as unsurprising that multi-car collisions are among the deadliest traffic incidents.
Causes of multi-car collisions
A recent assessment by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that over 13,000 fatalities occurred in multi-vehicle collisions involving passenger automobiles, which account for well over 40% of all motor vehicle collisions each year.
The results demonstrate that a combination of the following effects caused the deaths recorded in these accidents:
- Collisions from the back
- Collisions from straight up
- Collisions from side-impact
- Collisions coming from sideswiping
Although the analysis indicated these alarmingly high death rates in multiple-car pileups, single-car accidents, which are characterized as rollover and non-rollover wrecks, were responsible for more than 14,000 fatalities.
7 Facts You Should Know
Any vehicle accident is terrifying, but a multi-car collision has the potential to result in more catastrophic casualties and double the amount of damage. We’ve listed this list of seven facts concerning multi-car collisions:
Multi-Car Collisions Are Complex
Law enforcement investigates the accident to identify the reason and assign blame, just as they would in any collision. But even calling a 20-car collision “complex” would be an understatement. All conventional wisdom is thrown out the window, including the notion that if Driver B rear-ends Driver A, it is most likely Driver B’s responsibility.
Multiple Drivers May Be At Fault
Law enforcement may discover that while one driver caused the pileup, another, or maybe several other drivers, helped cause it in some manner after speaking to each motorist involved and looking at the roadway conditions and tire marks. This might indicate that a motorist was speeding, trailing too closely, or unfocused while driving a vehicle.
Comparative Negligence Laws Have Been Created And Implemented By Several States
Law enforcement will assess a proportion of partial blame after identifying which motorists are at fault. This implies that even while one driver may be deemed largely accountable for the collision, other drivers may also be held partially accountable. If your tail lights were out when you were rear-ended and you are judged to be 20% at blame, you are still eligible to file an injury claim; however, the amount of your claim will be 20% lower. The other motorists that were in the collision may potentially file a lawsuit against anyone judged to be partially at fault.
The Minutes Following The Crash Matter
Multi-car collisions can occur in a few seconds but persist for several minutes as cars keep crashing into one another. Move your vehicle away if you can, then dial 911. But if you’re stranded, wait until it’s secure for you to step out of the car and unbuckle your seatbelt. The automobiles behind you or your vehicle may continue to be struck by other vehicles.
Damages Are Often More Serious
Drivers and passengers are more inclined to experience two impacts and have greater odds of suffering injuries due to the likelihood of both front-end and rear-end car damage.
The Key Is Your Account
Authorities will examine tire marks, consider the weather and traffic conditions, and interview the drivers involved during major pileups. Check that you have a precise record of what transpired. Take photographs of your car and get the other driver’s contact and insurance particulars if you can; it’s possible to do so after the collision.
A Car Accident Attorney Is Essential
Due to the complexity of comparative negligence, it is likely to find yourself being sued while also claiming compensation in a multi-car collision. An automobile accident attorney can assist you reduce your personal liability while obtaining just compensation from the negligent drivers’ insurance providers.
Hire A Multi-Car Collision Lawyer From Desai Law
Multi-car crashes may be deadly and unforeseen. You can help secure yourself and other drivers on the road by taking precautions and by being aware of what you must do if you find yourself in such. Always keep in mind to never fail to drive carefully and be mindful of your surroundings, and if you are engaged in a multi-car crash, keep cool and take the required protocols to guarantee everyone’s safety.
If you’ve been hurt in a vehicle accident, you’ll require a personal injury lawyer from Desai Law. We are familiar with the difficulties of multi-car collisions and the numerous stakes necessary. For a no-cost consultation, call (304) 974-1974 or fill out our form right away.
