Getting to work may be difficult after enjoying a long Thanksgiving weekend, but traffic accidents make post-holiday Mondays that much more unbearable. Commuters on northbound I-270 were snarled in a traffic jam after two lanes were closed due to a multi-vehicle crash.
According to authorities, six vehicles were involved, including two cable service vehicles, an SUV and several small sedans. While an investigation is ongoing, pictures produced by KMOV News traffic reporters suggest that it was a chain-reaction collision where cars could not stop in time to avoid collisions.
Road conditions appeared to be clear, and there was no measurable amount of fog or precipitation that would make driving conditions difficult. As such, it is likely that human error was the primary cause in the accident.
The story underscores the importance of safe driving, as well as the duty all Missouri drivers have in looking out for other drivers while on the road. When traffic is heavy (as it usually is during rush hour) drivers must use reasonable care in changing lanes, maintaining safe speeds and avoiding distractions such as talking on cell phones, sending and checking text messages and tending to other tasks while behind the wheel.
A driver who breaches this duty and causes an accident could be held liable for damages stemming from the crash. This includes physical injuries as well as property damage. If you (or a loved one) has been involved in an accident, or been injured in a crash, an experienced personal injury attorney can help.
Source: KMOV.com, Multi-vehicle pile-up closes lanes on I-270, November 26, 2012