Sometimes, a simple fender bender can evolve into a multi-vehicle affair. What starts with just two vehicles can eventually involve dozens, even hundreds of other cars. This can happen on busy highways, especially when the road conditions are icy and dangerous. When this happens, victims may be confused as to what actions are available to them. Thankfully, in many cases, it is possible for investigators to determine how the accident started, and if they started with the actions of a negligent driver, victims may have rights.
According to reports, a recent accident south west of Philadelphia involved a staggering number of vehicles; 64, to be exact. Lanes were shut down for more than 16 hours following the car crash. Police said that the crash was a result of a sudden increase in wind speed and loss of visibility associated with fast-moving snow. As a result of the chain-reaction crash, three people were tragically killed. What’s more, 73 people were sent to 11 nearby hospital with injuries.
Some of the emergency responders had to travel more than a mile from their own vehicles to reach the victims. Reports say the crash happened in the morning, around 9:30 a.m. They also said there was reduced visibility as a result of the wintry conditions.
Even when the conditions are not optimal for driving, drivers are still expected to take all of the necessary precautions to prevent a car accident from occurring. When they fail to do so, devastating accidents can occur, resulting in numerous victims and numerous injuries. Accident injuries can have life-altering effects, requiring extended treatment and hefty medical expenses. However, by taking legal action against a negligent driver, it may be possible to acquire compensation which can be used to cover these medical expenses.
Source: NBC10, “3 Dead, Multiple Injuries in I-78 Crash Involving 64 Vehicles,” February 13, 2016