Tragic 3 Car Pile Up in Livingston County Leaves Man Dead

Authorities suspect alcohol and drugs as contributing factors in the initial collision.

Navigating the aftermath of a chain reaction crash can be perplexing, especially when factors like alcohol come into play. In Livingston County, a recent incident unfolded involving a three-car pile-up, raising questions about fault determination in such complex scenarios. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for everyone on the road. The police and victims in this recent pile up will be answering this question in the coming days.

Unfortunately, because chain reactions or multi-car pile ups involve several cars and drivers acting carelessly, bringing an insurance claim may be challenging. Contact a Michigan Car Accident attorney for help.

The Multi-Car Collision Wednesday Morning Leaves Howell Man Dead

A tragic three-car collision occurred in the early morning hours Wednesday in Livingston County, resulting in the death of a man and injuries to three others, according to Michigan State Police.

At 1:25 a.m., a 33-year-old Grand Blanc woman experienced car trouble and came to a stop on the shoulder of northbound US 23 near Clyde Road in Livingston County, police reported.

A 60-year-old Howell man, accompanied by two passengers, was driving north on US 23 near Clyde Road and veered off the road, colliding with the disabled car of the Grand Blanc woman, according to police.

The impact caused the woman’s disabled car to overturn into a ditch, while the second car became disabled in the right lane of travel, police stated.

Subsequently, a third car, driven by a 57-year-old Fenton woman, collided with the disabled second car, as per police reports.

Tragically, the 60-year-old Howell man lost his life in the collision, and a 58-year-old passenger in the same car was transported to Ascension Genesis Hospital in Grand Blanc with critical injuries, police confirmed.

The third passenger in the second car also received medical attention for non-life-threatening injuries, police added.

The drivers of the other two cars involved were taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, according to police statements.

Authorities suspect that alcohol and drugs may have played a role in the initial crash and are continuing their investigation into the incident.

Who is Liable in a Chain Reaction Crash?

Today’s tragic incident serves as an illustration of a chain reaction accident—a traffic event involving three or more cars ensnared in a sequence of rear-end collisions.

In this specific case, Driver B collides with the rear of Driver A, prompting a subsequent collision as Driver C, following too closely behind Driver B, is unable to stop in time. The situation may become more intricate if the impact of Driver B on Driver A results in Driver A rear-ending the vehicle in front.

Determining liability in such scenarios is often challenging. Typically, the driver initiating the initial rear-end collision bears responsibility for the entire chain reaction. However, with multiple subsequent collisions, assigning partial liability to several drivers becomes a complex task.

Partial liability may be attributed if, for instance:

• Speeding was involved
• Following too closely occurred
• Failure to use brakes or signals took place
• Driving while distracted was a factor

It’s important to note that if you were following all regulations and still rear-ended, you are not considered liable. Additionally, in cases of sudden and unexpected inclement weather, road hazards, or if the original crash resulted from a medical emergency within the driver’s vehicle, no party may be held liable in the chain reaction. 

The Auto Accident Attorneys That Fight for You

If you were caught in a chain reaction accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you need an auto accident attorney that will fight for you.

We have experience in over 120 trials in the State of Michigan and across the country, earning millions for our clients. But more than that, we take pride in treating every client with the care and respect of a family member, because when you’re going through a difficult time, you need more than an attorney. You need someone who cares.

If you need to speak with an attorney about your next steps after an accident, get in touch today to schedule your free consultation. 248-531-8665