Early morning commutes tend to be hectic and busy. Heavy traffic can cause some drivers panic about being late. This is especially true if commuters encounter frequent stops at traffic signs and signals in addition to the stop and go traffic they are sitting in. In these situations, it is important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and the other vehicles around them. If a driver is distracted because they are texting or they are negligent because they are following a vehicle too closely or they are speeding, a serious accident could result.
Authorities in northeastern Pennsylvania recently responded to a fiery truck crash that occurred in Williams Township. According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred just before 9 a.m. when a tractor-trailer collided with a car at a toll both. Authorities stated that the car was stopped at the toll booth when the truck traveled through and struck the car. This caused the car to become lodged under the truck, which then ignited.
Toll workers attempted to extinguish the fire while emergency crews were en route to the scene of the crash. Once they arrived, authorities pronounced the driver of the vehicle dead at the scene. The driver of the truck was injured and was transported to the hospital for treatment of the injuries he suffered.
The fatal truck accident is still under investigation. It is not clear at this time what caused the truck to crash into the automobile. Surveillance video at the scene is being viewed in order to determine cause. Once the investigation is completed the cause and liability could be established.
When a driver is negligent and causes a fatal crash, they could be liable for the resulting deaths and damages. The loved ones of the deceased could have a cause of action. They could file a wrongful death lawsuit in order to obtain an award of compensation. The money from the award could be used to cover the financial burdens that resulted, such as funeral costs, lost wages, loss of companionship and pain and suffering.
Remaining alert and attentive is important for all drivers, but is especially important for truck drivers who travel long distances and drive long hours. A negligent truck driver could cause a serious accident. Those affect by a fatal truck accident should understand they have options and could have a cause of action.
Source: SF Gate, “1 dead, 2 injured in Pa. interstate crash,” Jan. 13, 2014