A thick fog on the morning of 11/1 on National Highway 99 in Fresno, California, US, led to a 17-vehicle pile-up, killing one person and injuring at least 20 others, ABC7 reported.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that a 61-year-old man died and many others, including children, sustained injuries. Visibility on the road was limited to 3-4,5 meters when the accident occurred. Initial reports suggested that while two vehicles slowed, others behind them traveled faster, causing the collision.

Vehicles in the Fresno pile-up all had orange paint marks. *Photo: CHP Fresno*

Images released by the CHP revealed extensive damage to numerous vehicles, including a car nearly flattened by a large truck. At the accident scene, all affected vehicles bore orange paint marks, featuring circles, crosses, or arrows.

These paint marks, applied by rescue forces, indicate a vehicle's status: whether it has been inspected, if victims are present, and if rescue operations are complete. Such professional symbols streamline efforts for subsequent rescue teams, preventing redundant checks and saving time.

The symbols also highlight hazards, such as undeployed airbags (indicating an explosion risk), mark battery or electrical system locations, and pinpoint safe cutting points on the vehicle frame for hydraulic equipment.

The paint used for these accident markings is typically red or orange, ensuring visibility day and night. It is also usually a temporary paint, easily washed off or repainted during vehicle repairs.

Globally, rescue and accident investigation teams in many countries also mark vehicles or accident scenes with symbols as part of their standard procedures.

In the UK, rescue forces use colored spray paint or marking stickers. Australia's fire departments and rescue teams follow specific procedures for scene marking, which is crucial for safety and risk assessment. Canada and Germany also employ similar practices.

With the growing popularity of electric vehicles, rescue teams have developed specific regulations and documentation for identifying safe cutting points and handling procedures. This includes clear symbols to indicate high-voltage power sources on electric or hybrid vehicles.

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