A few years ago outside of Houston on I-10 one of most severe documented auto accidents in Texas history occurred. Heavy fog covered the highway on one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. In the accident, as many as 150 vehicles piled up, two were fatally wounded and 100 more were injured.
Multi-car pileups are scary, dangerous, and can be emotionally traumatic for anyone involved. The deputy on the scene said the fog was so thick he could not see 10 feet in front of his police car. The fatalities occurred as an SUV collided with the vehicle in front of it and was subsequently crushed by an 18-wheeler from behind.
Avoiding Multi-car Pileups
For starters, if the fog is so thick you are not able to see 10 feet in front of you, it may be wise to get off the highway until it passes. Most days in Austin and Houston, though, we don’t have to worry about fog, but multi-car pileups are still a legitimate threat. So here are a few extra things you can do to try and protect yourself from being injured or fatally wounded in such an accident.
- Avoid driving in fog, smoke, heavy rain and low visibility conditions
- If you must drive in low visibility conditions, slow down and turn your lights on
- Try to always be aware of where the 18-wheelers are
- Practice defensive driving and always leave yourself an “out”
When an accident does occur in front of you
- Don’t freak out – resist the urge to slam on your brakes
- Do your best to calmly pull to the shoulder and get out the way
- Turn on your head lights, fog lights and hazard lights
If you have been involved in a multi-car pileup due the negligence of another driver (or multiple drivers), you need the help of an attorney who understands your situation. Not only is there property damage and personal injury to cover, but the damages that you should be compensated for could potentially include all related medical bills, loss of work, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
Austin & Houston Severe Accident Lawyers
The experienced personal injury lawyers at Shaw Cowart LLP devote compassionate attention to your case. Our aim is to alleviate as much pressure as possible while providing aggressive legal representation to help you and your family pursue the just compensation you deserve. Contact us anytime online or call M-F toll free at 1-512-499-8900.