A 67-year-old Pennsylvania man lost his life on a recent Tuesday afternoon in an accident for which the other driver is now facing multiple charges, including vehicular homicide. This semi-truck crash involved eight vehicles and occurred in Salem Township on Route 22. Reportedly, a similar truck accident injured three people on that stretch of road about this time last year.
Authorities reported that a witness said the semi fishtailed through traffic after crossing the center median before running a red light at an intersection. It smashed into a pickup truck and pushed it into the base of a concrete lamp post. Emergency workers struggled for almost an hour to extricate the gravely injured man from the pickup. He was rushed to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Police said the 26-year-old driver of the semi claimed to have experienced brake problems on the truck. He said he stopped and checked it earlier and found the brakes smoking. When he saw the traffic light changing, he said he avoided using the brakes because they were so hot. He then tried to use his gears to slow down but failed.
The surviving family members of the Pennsylvania man who died in this semi-truck crash will naturally be overwhelmed with heartache, and they may find comfort knowing that financial relief may be pursued through the civil court. A wrongful death claim may be filed, and upon establishing negligence, the court may award monetary compensation for losses. All claims for financial and emotional damages will be adjudicated if they are properly documented.
Source: triblive.com, “Illinois tractor-trailer driver charged in Route 22 crash that killed Jeannette man“, Patrick Varine, June 15, 2016