Traveling with large commercial trucks is expected on major roads in Virginia and elsewhere. While this is a common occurrence, this does not mean that motorists do not have fears and apprehensions. These large vehicles do not maneuver like smaller vehicles, and they can generate much damage in the event of an accident. Victims of truck crashes and their families have important protections through the legal process.
A truck driver was recently arrested following a fatal truck accident in Virginia. The truck accident killed one victim and left another critically injured. The initial investigation of the accident, which left one teenager dead and another in critical condition, revealed that the driver of the delivery truck lost control of the truck, over-corrected and crossed the center line, hitting the vehicle the two teenagers were traveling in.
The small SUV that was hit carried two teenage girls who were seniors at a local high school. The teenage girl driving the vehicle was killed and the other teenage girl, a passenger, was air lifted to the hospital. The 31-year old driver of the truck was charged with DUI first offense, involuntary manslaughter, maiming as a result of a DUI, felony hit and run resulting in death and driving on a suspended operator’s license.
Truck accidents can result in catastrophic harm and damages to victims, including death and serious injuries. Both victims of truck accidents and family members of victims killed in truck accidents have personal injury and wrongful death legal options to consider, which can help with the physical, financial and emotional costs associated with a truck accident caused by a negligent truck driver. Damages that may be available include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and wrongful death damages.
Truck accidents can result in significant losses to victims and their families which is why it is essential for victims and their families to be familiar with the legal protections that are there for them and available to help them. Victims and their families should know how to call upon these resources when needed and pursue legal remedies available to them when harmed by a negligent truck driver.
Source: Wavy.com, “Chesapeake teenager killed in Virginia Beach accident; truck driver charged,” Kevin Green, et al., May 19, 2017