2 Injured in Car Accident on Route 24 in Berkley, MA

Berkley, MA — January 14, 2024, two people were injured in a car accident at about 1 p.m. on Route 24 /Fall River Expressway.

Authorities said three vehicles were involved in a crash near mile marker 16 that left one overturned onto its roof.

Two people were injured in the crash, according to authorities, but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Authorities have not released any further information about the crash, so it is not clear at this point how those people were injured.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

The multi-vehicle crash on Route 24 in Berkley highlights the importance of a thorough investigation to uncover how and why the incident occurred. While initial reports provide limited details, crashes involving multiple vehicles and a rollover often involve complex dynamics that require careful examination. To fully understand what happened, investigators should focus on three essential questions.

First, did authorities conduct a thorough investigation of the crash scene? Multi-vehicle accidents can create chaotic situations, and documenting the scene accurately is crucial to reconstructing the sequence of events. Were skid marks, debris patterns or the final positions of the vehicles analyzed to determine how the collision unfolded? Did investigators assess road conditions, such as surface quality, weather factors or visibility issues, that may have contributed? Witness statements and video footage from traffic or surveillance cameras could also provide valuable context about the actions of the drivers leading up to the crash.

Second, has anyone considered whether a mechanical defect in any of the vehicles might have played a role? Rollovers, in particular, can sometimes be linked to vehicle issues such as tire blowouts, brake malfunctions or stability system failures. Identifying these problems requires a forensic examination of the vehicles involved, especially the one that overturned. Preserving the vehicles for inspection is critical to determining whether any mechanical failures contributed to the collision or exacerbated its severity.

Finally, has all electronic data related to the crash been collected? Modern vehicles are equipped with engine control modules (ECMs) that store data such as speed, braking and steering inputs in the moments leading up to a crash. This information could clarify whether one or more drivers attempted evasive maneuvers or if any vehicles experienced mechanical issues. Investigators should also seek out video footage from nearby cameras or dashcams and explore whether cellphone data might indicate distraction or other factors influencing the crash. Prompt collection and analysis of this evidence are essential to preserving its value.

Multi-vehicle crashes with rollovers often raise questions about contributing factors, and answering those questions is crucial for understanding the incident and preventing similar events in the future. By addressing these three questions, investigators can work toward providing clear answers and accountability for those affected.