Common Causes of Pile-Up Accidents In Michigan

At the end of April in Livingston County, two people were killed and a third person was seriously injured in a multiple vehicle accident involving a semi truck. One of the fatalities occurred when a vehicle crashed underneath the semi truck. The second fatality occurred when a motorist was rear-ended by the semi truck. The accident occurred while traffic was slowing down to merge for construction; the semi truck driver lost control of the vehicle and collided with several vehicles. Law enforcement believes that eight motor vehicles were involved in the accident in total.

What is a Pile-up Accident?

A “pile-up” refers to an automobile accident involving more than two vehicles. Although a rare occurrence, these accidents frequently result in the serious injury or death of motorists involved. Pile-up accidents involving many vehicles are particularly dangerous because these accidents frequently leave individuals unable to escape from the mass of automobiles. There is also a risk of motorists involved in pile-ups being struck by passing vehicles. Additionally, fires and explosions sometimes occur during these types of accidents.

Common Causes of Pile-Up Accidents

There are many ways in which multiple vehicle accidents occur, but some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving. Many multiple vehicle accidents are caused by distracted drivers. If a driver’s attention is taken off the road even briefly there is a risk of a pile-up accident.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. People who drive while under the influence often lack depth perception, which can lead to multiple vehicle collisions.
• Drowsy driving. There are a number of pile-up accidents caused each year by motorists who fall asleep behind the wheel.
• Law enforcement chases. High-speed chases can lead to multiple vehicle accidents when a motorist loses control of a vehicle attempting to flee law enforcement.
• Low visibility conditions. Fog is one type of weather condition that has led to many multiple vehicle accidents in Michigan.
• Reckless driving. There are several types of reckless driving patterns that can cause multiple vehicle accidents including speeding, sudden lane changes, and tailgating.
• Vehicle malfunctions. If a single vehicle malfunctions there is a risk of a chain reaction accident occurring that can lead to a multiple vehicle collision.

What to do if You are Involved in a Pile-up Accident

After a pile-up accident, motorists should get out of danger as soon as it is safe to do so. By remaining in a wrecked vehicle, a person is at risk of being struck again. Law enforcement should also be contacted so that a police report can be made. If a motorist was even slightly injured, it is important to receive prompt medical treatment so that a record of the resulting injuries is made. If at all possible, a motorist should also attempt to collect contact information for any witnesses. It is also important to contact a skilled attorney who can provide assistance in helping an individual navigate the complicated matter of interacting with an insurance company and receiving the compensation that one deserves.

Contact a Michigan Attorney Today

If you have been injured in a pile-up accident, strong legal representation will fight to make sure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. Contact a Flint injury lawyer from Jay Trucks & Associates to begin taking steps to ensure that matters resolve in a positive manner. Ph: (800) 762-8623.

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