Right before Memorial Day weekend, a 17-year-old recent high-school graduate was killed after a collision with a logging truck in Tennessee. Evidently, the girl was planning on beginning her undergraduate studies at Lee University.
Recent reports indicate that on May 21st the girl was waiting at a red light near Highway 11. As the light turned green, the girl attempted to make a left turn onto Highway 11. However, a logging truck was proceeding north on Highway 11, heading towards the intersection the girl was turning on. The logging truck driver did not stop at the light and slammed into the girl’s car. He ended up crashing his truck right into the driver’s door, killing the recent graduate.
The Cleveland Police Department and Sheriff’s Office are still investigating the incident. The Tennessee Highway Patrol has reported that charges are still pending.
U.S. Department of Transportation Statistics Regarding Trucking Accidents
The U.S. Department of Transportation releases statistics regarding truck accidents every few years, and the numbers are often startling. Although the type of cars, number of occupants, and bystander deaths vary among states, the individual impact of these accidents can be harrowing. The Department of Transportation reported that in 2013 New Mexico had 82 deaths involving car occupants, 102 deaths in either pickup trucks or sports utility vehicles, and 16 deaths of those in large trucks. There is also an additional set of deaths of motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
Steps to File a Personal Injury Claim in a New Mexico Trucking Accident
The effect of a trucking accident can be grave and often involves several parties and serious injuries. In order to file a suit, there are several steps that an injured individual or their loved one must take. First, it is crucial that the victim seek medical treatment. It is beneficial to have emergency personnel evaluate the accident victim right after the accident. But even if some time has passed, it is very important to seek medical treatment. This will be imperative in attributing fault, substantiating comparative fault defenses, and assessing damages.
Next, it is important that you get the contact information of all those whom you believe witnessed or were involved in the accident. Many times, these accidents result in mayhem and chain-reaction accidents, so it is important to know all the players.
Lastly, it is crucial that you contact an attorney. In trucking accidents, the trucking company may try to avoid liability by claiming that the truck driver was not at fault for the accident, or it may claim that the driver was merely an independent contractor, rather than an employee. This can drastically reduce the amount that you will actually be able to recover, or prevent recovery altogether. Additionally, there are many procedural and evidentiary rules that must be followed.
Have You Been Injured in a Trucking Accident in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in New Mexico, you may consider bringing a personal injury claim against the driver or even the trucking company. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injuries, including amounts for your past medical expenses related to the accident, future medical bills, and other damages depending on your exact circumstances. Contact the Fine Law Firm at either 505-243-4541 or 800-640-6590 to schedule a free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Texas Semi-Truck Accident Results in Fatality, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, April 1, 2015.
Court of Appeals in California Reverses Lower Court Decision on Trucking Accident, New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer Blog, February 25, 2015.