Multi-Car Accident In Aiken Shuts Down Interstate
A massive multi-car accident in Aiken County shut down an interstate several days before Thanksgiving, impacting local motorists and holiday travelers driving through the area. Anytime even a relatively minor crash happens on busy roads, there is the potential for it to have a snowball effect, impacting you and other drivers nearby. Serious and potentially life-threatening injuries can occur as a result. It is important to be aware of the risks and how to protect yourself against this type of collision.
Multi-Vehicle Car Accidents: Know The Risks
According to a WRDW News report, a multi-vehicle car accident happened on Interstate 20 in Aiken County on November 23, 2020, just two days before the Thanksgiving holiday. It occurred shortly before 10:30 p.m., originating in the westbound lanes. Police are still investigating the underlying causes of the crash but report that a total of nine vehicles were involved—a bus, an 18-wheeler, and seven other drivers. The accident shut down both the eastbound and westbound lanes for hours after. Fortunately, and despite the severity of the incident, no serious injuries were reported.
Multi-vehicle car accidents are a major cause of concern on heavily traveled roads and interstates throughout the state. In many cases, a mistake or a problem experienced by just one or two drivers triggers a chain reaction, involving numerous other surrounding motorists. Factors that generally increase the risk of these multi-vehicle crashes include:
● Heavy traffic conditions, such as is common over rush hour and on weekends or holidays
● Roads with high speed limits
● Reduced lighting conditions, such as when driving at night
● Adverse weather, such as rain, fog, and heavy winds
● Areas under construction, in which there are unexpected stops, detours, or temporary lanes
● Any area heavily traveled by trucks, as their large size and difficulty in navigating can make multi-vehicle accidents more likely to happen
Protecting Yourself Against Multi-Vehicle Car Accidents
While multi-vehicle car accidents are common on major highways and interstates, they can happen on local roads as well. Reckless driving behaviors generally increase the risks. Drivers can protect themselves against this type of crash by avoiding the following:
● Speeding and going too fast for conditions
● Driving while distracted, such as using cell phones, texting, or changing GPS settings
● Tailgating, failure to yield, and other aggressive driving behaviors
● Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications
In a multi-vehicle crash, it can be difficult determining who is ultimately to blame. Before making any statements to insurers, contact our Aiken car accident attorney first. Under the South Carolina Code, multiple drivers can be held legally liable for the medical costs, lost wages, and other damages you suffer. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation in a claim.
Contact Our Aiken Car Accident Attorney Today
At the Surasky Law Firm, we provide the trusted legal representation you need when multi-vehicle crashes happen. For help in getting the compensation you need to recover, contact our Aiken car accident attorney and request a consultation today.
