Massive Collision in Sacramento Causes Injuries on Highway 99
A massive collision occurred on August 18th around 1:30 a.m. along Highway 99 northbound in Sacramento resulted in injuries to three individuals, who were transported to a hospital for treatment. Others were either uninjured or declined medical care. The accident was reported by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) as involving seven vehicles and occurred at the overpass of 5th Avenue. The vehicles sustained major damage in this massive collision, and debris was spread across all the northbound lanes for hundreds of feet.
Additional Information About the Accident
The accident could be seen from both sides of the overpass. It was reported that one car was sideways on the highway with the front end missing. The vehicle that struck it, according to a witness, proceeded on to strike another car. At this point, the witness called to two young women standing near their vehicle to go up the hill and distance themselves from the accident. The witness then reported that an additional car hit the young women’s vehicle, and a third struck the wall where the young women had been standing.
Northbound Lanes Closed
All of the northbound lanes of Highway 99 in the vicinity of the accident were shut down while the crash was cleared and CHP officers conducted an investigation. About an hour later, the officers opened the number one lane, which enabled traffic to pass. The other northbound lanes remained closed down until about 4:00 a.m.
How an Attorney Can Help
When our firm is involved in a case, the first thing we do is send our investigators to the scene of the accident. We scour the area for evidence and interview witnesses. Our investigators also check police reports for accuracy since they play an important role in the case. Once information is garnered, our legal team takes over. They use the data to build a strong case against the at-fault driver.
Staying Safe After an Accident
After an accident, many people leave their vehicle to exchange information, inspect vehicular damage or wait for police officers to arrive. On a highway where the speed limit is high, this can be a dangerous move. If possible, it is best to pull as far as you can to the side of the road, and remain in your vehicle. It is common for other drivers to gawk at an accident and drive into the stranded vehicles or people standing by them. In addition, many motor vehicle operators are not aware that an accident has happened and cause what amounts to a chain reaction type of massive collision. The bottom line is to remain in the vehicle unless it puts you at further risk.
Roadway Debris
After an accident, roadway debris or poor road maintenance can result in additional crashes. For instance, if a pickup hauling items is hit, the chances that the cargo will fall out onto the road is fairly high. Other drivers may try to avoid the cargo and maneuver away from it, only to hit another vehicle. If a commercial truck loses cargo, it is possible for an injured party to file a personal injury claim against them and their employer since securing cargo is a major obligation in the trucking industry. If the roadway maintenance is poor, the government agency in charge can be held responsible.
Distracted Drivers
Distracted drivers are often implicated in a massive collision on the highway. Distraction is fast becoming a major reason accidents happen. Drivers are commonly texting or talking on the phone, daydreaming, or eating in today’s fast-moving world. This sets the stage for multiple car collisions.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer. If you’ve been injured in a massive collision, you need the help of a seasoned injury lawyer. Phone me at (916) 921-6400 or at (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice. You can also reach me online if that is more convenient for you.
I’ve helped many residents of Sacramento obtain the compensation they deserve in all types of car accidents, wrongful deaths, and other traumatic injuries.
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Photo Attribution: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-vehicles-on-road-during-evening-1600757/
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