August 31, 2022
Multi-Vehicle car accidents often start as minor collisions between two vehicles, which are then struck by other vehicles that are unable to stop in time to avoid a collision. Often, the damage and injuries that result from the secondary collisions are worse than the effects of the initial crash. A local news report recently discussed a multi-vehicle accident near Westmoreland, New Hampshire earlier this month that resulted in four accident victims being hospitalized.
According to the news report, the accident occurred on Route 12 when one vehicle slowed down, attempting to turn from the highway, and was struck from behind by another vehicle that may have been following too closely. Two other following vehicles were then unable to avoid the crash. According to the report, a separate fatal crash earlier this month occurred less than a mile away on the same road.
Following too closely is one of the leading causes of car accidents in New Hampshire and nationwide. Many accidents caused by other situations could be avoided if drivers would leave more space between themselves and the car in front of them. As the speed of a vehicle increases, the distance it takes to stop increases exponentially. Most highway drivers do not realize the distance it would take to stop when traveling at higher speeds, and follow too closely as a result, resulting in deadly accidents.
Under New Hampshire law, a driver may not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for traffic, the speed of other vehicles, and the condition of the road. Drivers who follow too closely and cause an accident may be given a citation and also held liable for their negligence through a civil claim. Responsibility to victims of multi-vehicle accidents caused by drivers following too closely may be allocated to multiple drivers based on their degree of fault for the crash. Victims involved in a multi-vehicle crash should be sure to get the insurance and contact information of each driver involved in the crash.
Determining who is at fault for an accident can be complicated when there are several vehicles and mistakes involved. With several drivers involved, a victim must deal with several insurance companies as well as their own when trying to obtain compensation for their injuries. Seemingly valid claims may be rejected by insurance companies trying to pass off the responsibility to another party. A respected New Hampshire personal injury attorney can stop insurance companies from playing these games, and get them to settle quickly and reasonably.
Have You Been Hurt in an Accident?If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Hampshire car accident, it can be tough to know where to turn for help. The New Hampshire car accident and personal injury attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates have experience handling complex car accident cases, and with our representation, you can be comfortable that you will receive the compensation that you deserve. We represent clients throughout New England in all personal injury claims, including multi-vehicle accidents. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 1-800-804-2004 or reach out to us through our website.