Coal trucks are a common sight on many roads throughout the state of Pennsylvania. Like other large motor vehicles, they pose a particular threat to smaller vehicles that share the same roads. When accidents involving coal trucks and other vehicles occur it is highly likely that occupants of the smaller vehicles will suffer serious injuries. In the worst cases these crashes can even lead to death.

This past week a head-on collision occurred on Route 36. The crash ensued after the pickup truck driven by a 22-year-old man crossed the center line, into the path of the coal truck. The force of the impact caused both vehicles to burst into flames. Sadly the man in the pickup died in the incident, according to the coroner, on impact. At the time the morning accident occurred, the young man was on his way to work.

The individual who was behind the wheel of the coal truck survived. The truck driver reportedly attempted to rescue the man from the pickup that was on fire but was unable to get him out. The extent of any injuries the driver of the coal truck sustained is not currently known.

Though it is not known what caused the young man's vehicle to cross the center line, the coroner has determined the crash was an accident. When accidents such as this occur that are due to the negligence of another individual, it is not uncommon for the family members of the person who died to file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "Indiana County man dies in crash with coal truck," Liz Navratil, Sept. 13, 2012

• Motor vehicle accidents that result in deaths are difficult to deal with. Our firm provides counsel in personal injury matters including these. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Pittsburgh fatal motor vehicle accident page.