A truck accident in another state resulted in the death of seven relatives. The accident happened when a tractor-trailer rear-ended an SUV, pushing it into another tractor-trailer. The SUV was engulfed in flames and all the people inside were killed. Although accidents of this severity are rare, people can still be seriously hurt or killed because of commercial vehicles.
These large trucks are often very heavy, which can make it difficult for them to stop. Although the official cause of the crash that happened earlier this month isn’t known, it appears the driver wasn’t able to stop for traffic that had slowed ahead.
Sometimes truck drivers are operating on very little sleep or have driven long distances with no breaks, making them fatigued and an increased hazard to other drivers on the road. Drivers and passengers of smaller vehicles on the road are often the people who get hurt in an accident with a tractor-trailer.
Because these commercial vehicles are so big, the drivers of the big rigs are often able to walk away from accidents. Speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney might be a wise decision after a motor vehicle accident of any type in Louisiana. They can help a victim understand their rights and ensure they receive appropriate compensation. In the event of a death in an accident, the family members of a victim might also be entitled to compensation. Although compensation can’t undo an accident, it can help a family pay for expenses related to the accident.
Source: USA Today, “7 relatives die when Jeep is crushed between big rigs,” Aug. 16, 2013
