Multi-Vehicle Accident Lawyer Illinois

Common Multi-Car Accident Causes in Illinois

There are several factors that can lead to a pile-up or multi-car crash. The main two are during highway merges and in dense cities. See below for the most common types of car and multi-vehicle accidents in Illinois:

• Adverse Weather Conditions: Fog, rain, snow, and ice can reduce visibility and traction, leading to chain-reaction collisions. Icy roads in particular make it difficult to stop, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• High Traffic Density: Congested highways and urban roads increase the likelihood of chain-reaction crashes due to the close proximity of vehicles.
• Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, eating, or using in-car technologies divert attention from the road, causing sudden stops and collisions. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a multi-car accident.
• Speeding: Driving at high speeds reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents, making it difficult to avoid collisions in heavy traffic or poor conditions.
• Tailgating: Following too closely to the vehicle in front can result in rear-end collisions, especially if the lead vehicle stops suddenly. This behavior is particularly dangerous on highways.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
• Aggressive Driving: Behaviors like weaving through traffic, speeding, and road rage can lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations, causing multiple vehicles to crash.
• Mechanical Failures: Issues such as brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical problems can cause drivers to lose control and crash into multiple vehicles. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial to prevent these occurrences.
• Poor Visibility: Conditions such as heavy fog, snowstorms, or poorly lit roads reduce drivers' ability to see the road and other vehicles, increasing the risk of multi-car collisions.

What Should You Do After a Multi-Car Accident?

Being in a car accident--let alone one that involves multiple vehicles--can be a stressful experience. It's helpful to know what to do if you find yourself in that sort of situation. Below are a few key points our Southern Illinois multi-car accident lawyers recommend:

1. Ensure Safety: Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. If it's safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
2. Call the Police: Report the accident to the police, even if it seems minor. A police report will be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
3. Exchange Information: Obtain contact, insurance, and vehicle information from all parties involved in the accident. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be crucial evidence for your insurance claim or legal case.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don't feel injured, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Keep records of all medical visits and treatments related to the accident.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly. Provide them with all the necessary information and documentation to start your claim process.
7. Avoid Admitting Fault: Be careful about what you say at the scene. Do not admit fault or apologize, as these statements can be used against you later. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police and other parties.
8. Keep a Record: Maintain a file of all documents related to the accident, including the police report, medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with your insurance company.
9. Consult an Attorney: If you have suffered significant injuries or if the accident involves complex legal issues, consider consulting a personal injury attorney. They can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Don't hesitate to contact our multi-car accident lawyers in Southern Illinois at Hassakis & Hassakis now if you've been involved in an accident or call us at (800) 553-3125. Our experienced attorneys are here to help make sure you get the support you need and any compensation in Southern Illinois.