Editing Multiple-vehicle collision (section)

== Effects ==
[[File:Multiple vehicle car crash.jpg|thumb|[[Emergency service]]s work on the scene of a multiple vehicle collision in [[Toronto]].]]
Multiple-vehicle collisions are particularly deadly as the mass of crumpled vehicles makes escape for survivors difficult. Even if survivors are able to exit their vehicles, other cars may strike them. Individual vehicles in a multiple-vehicle collision are often hit multiple times at high speed, increasing the risk of injury to passengers who may have survived the first impact with the benefit of now-discharged protective [[airbag]]s. Collisions after the initial collision may occur from the side of the vehicle, where the passenger compartment is more vulnerable.

A fire in one part of the collision can quickly spread via spilled [[gasoline]] and cover the entire crash area. Multiple-vehicle collisions can also overwhelm local [[emergency service]]s making speedy rescues more difficult. If the collision takes place in a remote area, getting medical help to the scene can be difficult.

The destruction and intense heat of fires can also damage roadways, particularly by melting and burning the [[Asphalt concrete|asphalt]] or [[spall]]ing concrete surfaces. The [[structural steel]] of bridges and [[overpass]]es can also be weakened by the heat. A fiery pileup inside a [[tunnel]] is the most serious, as there is little means to escape the poisonous fumes and the confined heat may damage structural supports.

The large scale of these collisions can close highway routes for several days, or even longer if highway support structures are damaged.