Every autumn, as clocks “fall back” and we gain an extra hour of sleep, many people welcome the change. But while the shift to Standard Time signals cozy evenings and the approach of the holidays, it also brings increased risks on Fresno’s roads, especially multi-car accidents.
At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we’ve seen how the fall time change leads to serious crashes. If you were injured in a multi-car accident, knowing what caused it can help you protect your rights and pursue compensation.
How Daylight Saving Time Affects Driver Safety
The shift back to Standard Time in the fall means sunset happens earlier, often while people are commuting home from work or running errands. Suddenly, drivers must adjust to darker roads during peak travel hours, often in conditions they aren’t used to.
Reduced daylight affects driver visibility and reaction times. Even small mistakes can lead to dangerous chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles when visibility drops. Drivers might struggle to see brake lights, changing traffic signals, or hazards in time to react safely.
Why Multi-Car Accidents Increase in the Fall
Multi-car pileups often happen when several fall hazards combine—like early nightfall, dense fog, slippery roads, heavy traffic, drowsy drivers, and holiday distractions. These factors create a perfect storm for multi-car accidents on busy highways like State Route 99, Highway 41, and other Fresno-area roads.
Common Injuries From Multi-Car Pileups
Multi-car collisions can cause devastating injuries due to the force of impact and involvement of several vehicles. Injuries often seen in these crashes include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Severe soft tissue injuries
- In some tragic cases, fatalities
Recovering from these injuries can require long-term medical care, therapy, and time away from work. The physical and emotional toll on victims and their families is significant.
How Fowler | Helsel | Vogt Helps Victims of Multi-Car Accidents
When multiple vehicles are involved, determining fault and liability can be complex. At Fowler | Helsel | Vogt, we have the experience and resources to investigate every detail of your accident. We work with accident reconstruction experts, gather police reports and witness statements, and carefully review medical records to build a strong case on your behalf.
Our dedicated team fights to ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future care you may need. We handle the insurance companies and any legal hurdles so you can focus on healing.
Protect Yourself After a Fall Multi-Car Crash
If you’re involved in a multi-car accident during the fall months, take these important steps:
- Check for injuries and seek medical care immediately.
- Call law enforcement to file an accident report.
- Document the scene with photos if it’s safe to do so.
- Gather contact information from other drivers and witnesses.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Fowler | Helsel | Vogt before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Don’t Let Daylight Saving Time Put You at a Disadvantage
The fall time change affects everyone, but if you’ve been injured in a multi-car crash, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Fowler | Helsel | Vogt is here to help Fresno families understand their rights and fight for fair compensation.
Reach out today for a free consultation. We’re ready to help you through every step of the process.