Motor vehicle accidents in which large commercial trucks are involved often result in those drivers and passengers involved sustaining serious and even fatal injuries. Due to the considerable size and weight of commercial trucks, the commercial trucking industry is highly regulated. While state and federal laws have been effective in reducing the number of motor vehicle accidents caused by commercial trucks, accidents involving 18-wheelers still occur with far too much frequency.
As morning commuters recently crowded Ohio's I-77, a tragic accident occurred which left two people dead and another four injured. According to police reports, the accident occured when a southbound car and commercial truck collided. The force of the collision caused the tractor-trailer truck to veer off of the interstate, cross the median and crash into oncoming traffic.
The truck crashed into three other cars. Upon arriving at the accident scene, first responders worked quickly to extract injured drivers and passengers who were trapped in their vehicles. At least one person was transported to the hospital via helicopter.
Sadly, a 33-year-old man and 57-year-old woman died as a result of the severe injuries they sustained in the accident. Four more individuals who were involved in the multiple-vehicle crash sustained serious injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. Their conditions are not currently known.
Police continue to investigate the accident to determine what factors may have contributed to its cause. In accidents in which commercial vehicles are involved, police often conduct a thorough investigation. A driver's log book is examined to determine how many hours a driver worked and slept. A blood sample is also typically taken to determine whether the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident.
Drivers and the companies for which they work, who are found to be negligent in causing a fatal accident often face criminal charges. Additionally, family members of the deceased victims may choose to take legal action and file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Source: The Plain Dealer, "I-77 Northbound Reopens After Fatal Morning Crash," Donna J. Miller, April 23, 2013