Whenever a car is disabled and blocking traffic, it becomes a hazard for both the occupants in the car, as well as drivers in oncoming cars. In these situations, it is critical for help to be called as soon as possible, so that other injuries do not occur in a subsequent accident.
A disabled car on U.S. Highway 60 in Mesa was apparently the cause of a recent crash. According to an azcentral.com report, three teens were in a car that was stopped in the emergency lane to assist two other vehicles that were in fender bender. A large van came along and crashed into the car from behind, causing the car to smash into the other vehicles.
At least five people were injured in the crash, and they were treated at the scene of the crash. Also, several lanes of the highway were closed at the site so that DPS investigators could piece through the wreckage to determine the cause of the crash.
Although the crash is under investigation, it is a reminder that drivers must be aware of disabled vehicles, and slower traffic. It is not uncommon for drivers distracted by talking on cell phones, sending or reading text messages, or even looking to change lanes to crash into stopped cars or slow traffic. Drivers in Arizona have a duty to use reasonable care in these situations, and if they fail to do so, they could be held liable. In essence, injured parties could seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Source: AZCentral.com “Crash slows US 60 eastbound in Mesa,” Adriana Torres, April 24, 2014