Seven people were injured in a recent three-vehicle accident in Linden that took out a utility pole and a gas pump. Fortunately, greater disaster was averted by the quick reaction of a gas station attendant who shut off the flow of fuel to the pump.

CBS New York reports the accident happened just before 11 a.m. October 5 when an Acura with five people in it lost control while headed south on Edgar Rd. The driver hit the curb and then a utility pole and continued traveling into a gas station lot.

Once in the Hess gas station, the Acura hit another vehicle, causing it to hit a third vehicle that was being fueled. The gas pump was also knocked over in the chain reaction.

One woman in the Acura was ejected in the accident. She was found on the ground near the scene and transported to University Hospital in Newark where she was listed in critical condition. Four others in the Acura were also hospitalized. A man and a woman from the other vehicles were taken to local hospitals with unknown injuries.

The accident could have been even worse had the spilled fuel ignited. Soon after the impact, a gas station attendant hit the emergency shut-off switch to stop the spill from growing.

No charges have been issued in the wreck, as the investigation is still ongoing. Traffic was diverted from the area as officials cleaned up and continued their investigation.

When a serious auto accident occurs, it can alter the lives of numerous people in a matter of seconds.

The person who is found to be at fault can be held responsible for the harm suffered by others. This means that the injured parties can seek compensation for their medical costs, pain and suffering, and for the time they have to miss from work.