Multiple-Vehicle Collision in Natomas
A multiple-vehicle collision in Natomas on November 29 occurred on San Juan and Airport roads in the vicinity of Interstate 80. It occurred at 9:30 p.m. between three vehicles. According to a representative of the Sacramento Police Department, one of the six people who were injured in the collision is listed as being in critical condition. All the individuals in this collision were taken to local hospitals. One of the vehicles appeared to have extensive front end damage. Another vehicle has significant passenger-side damage along with a shattered windshield. Both Airport and San Juan roads were blocked in both directions. People who know the area said that speed is often a factor in crashes in this location, but there is no official confirmation that it was involved in this accident. They also said that a stop sign and better illumination would help. Police, emergency responders and the fire department were represented at the scene. An investigation into the multiple vehicle collision is underway at this time. There is no indication as to whether drugs or alcohol were involved.
Multiple-Vehicle Collision Overview
Collisions between multiple vehicles usually occur in highly trafficked areas where the speed limit is higher. They often happen in areas where visibility is low due to environmental conditions. When this happens, the driver in the rear may not be able to accurately calculate their distance from a car or truck in front of them. At other times, the visibility is good, but slippery conditions cause problems. In addition, when a multiple-vehicle collision occurs, especially on roads with a higher speed limit, cars traveling behind may not be able to stop in time. This has the potential to involve even more vehicles as they swerve and cross into other lanes to avoid accidents ahead.
Determining Fault in a Multiple-Vehicle Collision
Determining fault in a multiple-vehicle collision can be complex. Many times, the driver who started the accident may be held responsible. Some of the reasons a driver may initiate a multiple-vehicle collision are:
- A motorist who did not use their signal lights or had faulty brake lights can be held responsible for a series of collisions.
- A distracted driver is unlikely to notice the driver ahead has slowed down.
- A motorist who was speeding may not be able to slow down in time.
- A driver who is tailgating may hit the driver in front of them if traffic slows.
- Traffic signals that are inadequate can lead to a multiple-vehicle collision.
Injuries in Multiple-Vehicle Collisions
Collisions involving multiple vehicles are dangerous and often deadly due to the number of hits vehicles take. For instance, a vehicle may be hit numerous times. Even if the vehicles have airbags, they will deploy only once. This means that the motorist will have no protection from subsequent impacts since the airbags have already discharged. If a fire breaks out in one part of the pileup, it can easily spread due to spilled flammable substances such as gasoline. Recovery can also be difficult as fire and EMS personnel negotiate tangled vehicles or manage to get to a rural area. If the accident happens in a tunnel, the consequences can be terrifying.
What an Attorney Can Do
At our firm, we know the devastating consequences of a multiple-vehicle collision. We dispatch our investigative team to the accident site as soon as possible to begin gathering evidence as to why the crash occurred. They will interview witnesses, review police reports for errors, and obtain any video footage of the accident that is available. In a multiple-vehicle accident, the amount of information is large, and our investigators continue to search until all their questions have been answered. Once all data is in, the investigative team passes the information to our lawyers who use it to build a strong case for our client.
Natomas Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Natomas Car Accident Lawyer. The insight of a car accident lawyer is essential in a multiple-vehicle crash. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also reach out to me online.
I’ve helped numerous residents in Natomas and Sacramento since 1982 obtain the compensation they deserve in car accidents, wrongful deaths, and other traumatic injuries.
I am proud to belong to the Million Dollar Advocates and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
If you would like to learn about my practice, please go to the following pages:
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_84780222_l-2015
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