Tractor-trailer drivers in Pennsylvania who operate these heavy vehicles while they are tired or exhausted may cause devastating accidents with multiple injuries and fatalities. Suffering exhaustion while driving reduces the driver’s ability to recognize potentially dangerous situations and the ability to react appropriately in order to avoid a collision. In fact, it is not uncommon for drivers in such a state to fall asleep and cause truck accidents without even being aware of surrounding traffic at the time of the collision.
A truck driver from the city of Reading is facing multiple charges after allegedly causing a multi-vehicle accident on Route 222. Authorities say that the 49-year-old tractor-trailer driver fell asleep while driving. The truck collided with several vehicles, killing the drivers of two separate vehicles. In addition, nine other individuals suffered unspecified injuries.
The truck driver is accused of two involuntary manslaughter counts, along with 10 reckless endangerment charges. It was reported that other charges relating to speeding, careless and reckless driving, and disregard of traffic lanes were also added. He was detained on $500,000 bail in the Berks County Prison.
Truck accidents almost always have tragic consequences, and the surviving families of the two victims who lost their lives are likely facing significant funeral and burial expenses. Similarly, any seriously injured victims will be faced with unexpected medical bills. Recovery of such damages is possible by way of civil claims against the truck driver, along with his employer and/or other party who may own the truck. By successfully litigating wrongful death, and/or personal injury claims in a Pennsylvania civil court, the victims (including the surviving family members of those who lost their lives) may be entitled to fair compensation to cover the damages that were brought about by the tragic accident.
Source: pennlive.com, “Reading truck driver charged in double fatal crash fell asleep at the wheel, authorities say“, Jeffrey A. Johnson, Nov. 20, 2014