There’s nothing quite like the sight of multiple vehicles tangled up on the highway to make you realize how important it is to be safe on the road. Multi-car accidents are a frightening reality for many drivers and can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. In fact, according to data gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2021, fatal crashes involved three or more vehicles roughly 40% of the time.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of multi-car accidents, so you can learn to recognize the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Common Causes of Multi-Car Accidents

The causes of multi-car accidents don’t differ greatly from smaller-scale accidents. The difference is that multi-vehicle accidents can be the result of multiple causes happening over a short period of time. Still, there are risks unique to multi-car accidents that can be avoided. Some of the most common causes are:

Trucks and Large Vehicles

The presence of large vehicles, such as semi-trucks and commercial vehicles, can play a significant role in multi-car accidents. Due to their size and weight, trucks take longer to stop and have larger blind spots, which can make it difficult for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles around them. When a truck is involved in a collision, its sheer mass and momentum can cause a chain reaction involving multiple cars.

Distracted Driving

It’s no secret that distractions are a leading cause of accidents. Texting, eating, fiddling with the radio, or even daydreaming can take your focus off the road for a critical few seconds. In those moments, the risk of a multi-car accident skyrockets. When one driver fails to notice the traffic slowing down or a car stopping ahead, a chain reaction of collisions can ensue.

Tailgating

Following too closely to the vehicle in front of you (a.k.a tailgating) is a recipe for disaster. When drivers don’t maintain a safe following distance, they significantly reduce their reaction time to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow. If the car in front of you brakes suddenly, a tailgater may not have enough time to stop, causing a rear-end collision that can involve multiple vehicles.

Speeding

Excessive speed is another major contributor to multi-car accidents. When drivers travel at high speeds, they require more distance to stop and have less time to react to unexpected situations. Speeding can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle or fail to recognize that traffic has slowed or stopped ahead, leading to a multi-car pileup.

Poor Weather Conditions

Rain, snow, ice, or fog can severely impact visibility and road conditions. When drivers fail to adjust their speed and following distance to account for these factors, the likelihood of multi-car accidents increases. Slick roads can cause skidding and loss of control, while poor visibility can prevent drivers from seeing stopped or slowed traffic in time to react.

What You Can Do to Avoid Multi-Car Accidents

Practicing safe driving techniques is the best way to avoid multi-car accidents. The upside of using a high level of precaution while driving is that these techniques can reduce the risks of every kind of accident, not just multi-car ones. And by driving safely, you’re not only doing yourself a favor; you’re helping protect those around you, too.

Keep the following tips front of mind to be safe on the road: 

  • Stay Focused: Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Eliminate distractions, such as your phone, and focus on the task of driving. It only takes a moment of inattention to cause a catastrophic accident.
  • Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Follow the 3-second rule: choose a fixed point ahead, such as a road sign, and count the time it takes for you to reach it after the car in front of you passes it. If it’s less than three seconds, you’re too close. Increase the distance in poor weather conditions.
  • Obey Speed Limits: Drive at a safe speed, taking into account traffic, road, and weather conditions. Remember that speed limits are set for a reason, and adhering to them can help keep you and others safe.
  • Drive Defensively: Anticipate potential hazards and be prepared to react. This means constantly scanning the road, checking your mirrors, and being aware of the vehicles around you. Stay vigilant and expect the unexpected.
  • Be Patient: Rushing or aggressively driving increases the likelihood of an accident. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.

Get Great West Injury Law When You’re in An Accident of Any Size

No matter the scale of the accident you’ve been involved in, having experienced legal representation on your side is crucial. At Great West Injury Law, we understand the complexities of multi-car accidents and are dedicated to helping you navigate the often challenging legal process. Our team of skilled car accident lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation and let us be your advocate in the aftermath of any accident, big or small.