Washington County, PA (September 23, 2024) – A serious multi-car crash occurred on Interstate 70 in Washington County on Sunday, injuring seven individuals. The incident took place shortly before 2 p.m. and involved four cars and a boat on a trailer. According to WPXI, the chain-reaction collision happened between Exit 21, which leads to I-79 South toward Morgantown, and Exit 20, directing traffic to PA 136—Beau St.

Emergency responders were quick to act, with the South Strabane Fire Department reporting that multiple people were entrapped in the wreckage. In a remarkable display of urgency, four medical helicopters were dispatched to the scene to facilitate swift evacuations. A 911 supervisor confirmed that one individual was airlifted to a hospital while the remaining six were transported via ambulances for further medical care. The crash significantly impacted traffic, disrupting multiple lanes on both I-70 and I-79. Authorities worked diligently to control the situation, rerouting vehicles and managing the flow of traffic as they conducted recovery efforts. The South Strabane Fire Department played a critical role in extricating individuals from the damaged vehicles.

Recovery operations on I-70 concluded around 5 p.m., allowing traffic to resume its normal flow after hours of disruption. Investigators are currently piecing together the details of the crash, but as of now, no information regarding the extent of injuries or the identities of those involved has been released.

We hope the injured victims recover quickly.

Multi-Car Accidents and Personal Injury Claims in Washington County

Multi-car accidents have become increasingly prevalent in Washington County, mirroring a broader trend seen across the United States. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, over 30,000 traffic accidents were reported in Washington County in 2023, with nearly 10% classified as multi-vehicle collisions. 

These accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the force of impact and the complexity of multiple vehicles involved. Data shows that multi-car crashes account for approximately 25% of all traffic-related injuries in the county, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures and public awareness.

The rise in multi-car accidents can be attributed to various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, and adverse weather conditions. In 2023, nearly 20% of all accidents in Pennsylvania were linked to driver inattention, emphasizing the importance of remaining focused on the road. A moment of distraction can lead to catastrophic outcomes, prompting local authorities to urge drivers to adopt safer practices to mitigate the risk of multi-car accidents.

You may wonder about your legal options. If you are injured due to another driver’s negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s also essential to understand that in Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Consulting with an attorney promptly can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Washington County car accident, a knowledgeable Pennsylvania car accident attorney from The Slocum Law Firm is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, our law firm offers personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.

To speak with our lawyers about your Washington County car accident, call The Slocum Law Firm at (570) 290-7376 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are tirelessly defended.