Semi-trailer trucks pose a significant accident threat on Kentucky’s highways. The large vehicles travel at high speed and can be difficult to control if something goes wrong. While drivers of passenger vehicles must keep a sharp lookout for these big rigs, the big rig drivers must likewise watch for passenger vehicle that unexpectedly enter their line of travel. A recent three-vehicle collision on the south side of Owensville shows how the inability of a big rig to stop quickly can lead to tragedy.
The accident
A semi-trailer truck was traveling south on Frederica Street. As the truck approached the Martin Luther King loop, a sedan unexpectedly pulled out and attempted to make a left turn into the north bound lane of the King loop. The driver of the sedan apparently did not see the big rig until he pulled out onto Frederica Street. The driver of the semi-trailer truck was unable to stop quickly, and the truck began sliding sideways south on Frederica Street.
Another driver who was heading north on Frederica Street saw the out-of-control semi and stopped his car in the middle of the road. He was unable to move his vehicle as the semi slid toward him. The big rig hit the car head-on.
Injuries
As in most cases involving semi-trailer trucks, the driver of the large vehicle was not injured. The drivers of the other two vehicles were taken by accident to a near-by hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The prognosis for the two injured drivers is not known at this time.
Who is liable?
Anyone who has been injured or lost a loved one under similar circumstances may wonder about recovering damages from the driver who caused the accident. While no one can accurately predict how a jury may react, the evidence gathered so far appears to indicate that the driver who attempted to make the left turn onto Frederica Street will be assessed the greater share of fault, while the driver of the northbound vehicle on Frederica Street may be absolved of any fault. Further investigation may reveal new facts that will have a significant impact on the case.
Before bringing a claim, an injured person may wish to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney can evaluate the evidence, suggest useful legal arguments, and provide an estimate of the likelihood of recovering damages for medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.