Most of us have been caught in traffic on the highway when there has been a multi-car pileup. These multiple-vehicle car crashes are often referred to as a “chain-reaction crash,” which is when three or more vehicles are involved in a series of collisions that’s caused by an initial single collision. Accidents like these can be difficult to determine who is at fault. In fact, sometimes it’s determined that more than one person is responsible for the accident.
WHO IS AT FAULT IN A CHAIN REACTION CRASH?
In most cases, the driver who is responsible for the initial crash in the chain reaction accident will be held liable for the entire thing. However, other drivers or even other entities may share in some of the blame as well. Here are a few examples of when other drivers or even public agencies could be responsible for part of a chain reaction crash:
- A driver who didn’t use their brake lights or turn signal.
- A driver who was tailgating other drivers.
- A driver who was speeding.
- A driver was distracted and unable to see and respond properly to the initial crash.
- The local government agency failed to install a traffic sign or failed to maintain it.
- The local government agency didn’t free the road of obstacles, such as a traffic cone or large roadkill, which caused drivers on the road to stop abruptly.
- A driver who doesn’t adjust their driving habits when adverse weather conditions hit.
- A driver who is impaired or driving while fatigued doesn’t have a good reaction time to an existing accident.
The key thing to remember when trying to prove that other drivers or public entities are partially responsible for a chain reaction crash is to have evidence that they were negligent.
INJURIES THAT CAN OCCUR FROM A CHAIN REACTION CRASH
Multiple vehicle accidents can often be more serious than a typical crash between two cars. Because of all the force from all the vehicles, it can cause substantial injuries and increase the chance for a fatal crash. Even drivers who aren’t involved in the initial crash still have the risk of extreme injury in these dangerous types of incidents.
Some common injuries that individuals can receive in a chain reaction crash include the following:
- Brain and head injuries
- Broken and fractured bones
- Coma
- Internal organ injuries
- Paralysis
- Neck and back injuries
Have you or a loved one been injured in a chain reaction crash in Georgia? You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, or lost wages. Call the Fry Law team today at (404) 948-3571 to learn more about your legal rights.
