Six people were injured in a Riverside car accident the afternoon of July 26, 2010 that involved at least eight vehicles. KESQ reports that the accident began in the westbound lanes of Interstate 10, near Haugen-Lehman, and ended up on both sides of the freeway. California Highway Patrol found debris on both sides of the freeway due to at least two vehicle rollovers.

The chain reaction crash began when a vehicle lost control and went over the center divider into oncoming traffic. One driver told officials he may have started the crash by honking at a car that cut him off. That vehicle then swerved and lost control. That initial loss of control triggered a chain reaction accident involving several vehicles. Major injuries were reported.

I am relieved to hear that there were no fatalities in this devastating crash. My thoughts and prayers are with the many families that have been affected by this incident.

Riverside Car Accident Statistics

In 2008, there were 220 fatalities and 8,561 injuries involving car accidents in Riverside County, according to CHP's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Statistics also show that 71 of the fatal car crashes in Riverside County and 1,227 injury accidents occurred on state highways during the same year.

Lane Change Laws

This accident is still under investigation. Based on this report, it appears that it may have been triggered by an unsafe lane change on the part of one of the drivers. California Vehicle Code section 21658 (a) states that whenever a roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction the vehicle "shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety."

Protecting Victims' Rights

When a driver chooses to make an unsafe lane change, he may be held responsible for the accident and resulting injuries. When there is a chain reaction crash with multiple cars, the investigation can be complex. It is in the best interests of injured parties to not speak with the insurance companies and attorneys of the other parties involved without consulting an attorney. It is also crucial to not sign any agreements without first contacting a Riverside personal injury lawyer who will consider your best interests.

Have you ever been involved in or witnessed a multiple car crash?

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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