Car accidents involving multiple vehicles have a higher rate of injuries and their complexity may make it difficult to determine who is at fault in the accident. In 2019, nearly half of Ohio fatal car accidents involved multiple vehicles, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In a total of 1,153 fatal crashes, 574 single-vehicle accidents occurred, and 578 collisions involved multiple vehicles. Multiple-vehicle collisions are unique. Understanding these differences is important to understand how they can impact your fight for compensation.
Causes of Multiple-Vehicle Collisions in Ohio
A multiple-vehicle accident can occur in numerous ways. Oftentimes, these types of accidents happen in a chain reaction that results in a pile-up, or multiple vehicles colliding with one another. Rear-end collisions can result in a multiple-vehicle accident when the vehicle behind another pushes the vehicle in front into another vehicle. Multi-vehicle collisions also commonly take place at intersections or on highways. Highway multi-vehicle accidents are dangerous, as high speeds can increase a driver’s risk. These wrecks can involve a high number of vehicles. Multiple-vehicle accidents may also arise at intersections when a driver runs a red light or fails to yield the right of way. This can result in collisions which can start a chain reaction. Other causes of multi-vehicle collisions include the following:- Weather conditions: Failing to slow down, maintain distance between vehicles, or not adapting to changing weather conditions can result in multiple vehicle crashes. Failing to follow traffic laws during bad weather can increase the likelihood of these accidents.
- Distracted driving: Texting while driving, eating, drinking, or talking on the phone are some of the ways drivers can be distracted on the road. These actions can lead to collisions involving multiple vehicles and serious injuries.
- Driving Under the Influence: When a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, their reaction time, reasoning, muscle coordination, and thinking can all be impaired.
- Tailgating: Driving too close behind another vehicle does not allow enough distance between the vehicles to travel safely. If the vehicle in front stops suddenly, tailgating can result in a rear-end collision and a potential pile-up following the vehicle.
- Fatigued Driving: Driving while falling asleep or while drowsy can lead to a crash or multiple collisions without the driver being aware of the accidents.
