One of the most dangerous types of collisions to get into are those that involve multiple vehicles. The initial crash between two or more vehicles is bad enough, but when the crash is compounded by multiple other collisions, further injuries are likely.
In a multi-vehicle crash, the impact comes from different directions and can happen multiple times. Someone who is badly hurt with the first impact could be killed with a second. Someone who escaped injury with the first might suffer debilitating wounds when another vehicle collides with them.
Reducing multi-vehicle crashes
Car crashes have some common causes, and if you can recognize them, then you have an opportunity to reduce the risk of multiple-vehicle crashes. For example, not being distracted gives you a better chance to witness what’s happening around you and to avoid a wayward driver if they make a mistake. Similarly, not speeding means that any crash that does happen is less likely to be severe, so you can walk away from it and, potentially, not involve other vehicles.
Some of the top actions to avoid when you’re driving include:
- Distracted driving, which can include eating behind the wheel, texting, reading and grooming
- Drunk driving, which may also include impairment through prescription or over-the-counter drug use
- Speeding, which is the second most common cause of crashes in the U.S.
- Tailgating, which happens when you drive too closely to the rear of another vehicle. If multiple people tailgate each other, then a multi-vehicle crash is more likely
If you are hit because of another driver making mistakes like these, you may be in a position to file a claim. Our website has more on what you can do to avoid multi-vehicle crashes and protect yourself on the road.