This three vehicle pileup, the result of a big rig running a stop sign, killed one.
Traffic signs are put in place for obvious reasons. Those who fail to pay attention to those signs are running a very real risk of serious injury or death, as this case that we heard about demonstrates. A big rig driver blew a stop sign and because he did, he was involved in a crash with another semi and a minivan. The driver of the minivan was killed.
This accident happened when the driver of a tractor-trailer unit didn’t obey a stop sign at a road connecting with a highway. Just as he was sweeping onto the highway, he broadsided another 18-wheeler. The impact was so forceful that one rig was shoved into the northbound lane where it hit a minivan.
The driver of the van was virtually crushed into his vehicle like a sardine in a tin and the Jaws of Life had to be used to extricate him. Unfortunately, his injuries were so severe he died at the scene of the accident. As an Arkansas accident lawyer, we see cases like this quite often. They are never easy for the family and the shock of losing someone they loved is monumental.
Evidently, the drivers of the two big rigs were not badly hurt and managed to walk away from the scene with minor injuries. While the police report indicated that they didn’t believe drugs or alcohol were factors in this accident, there would be a full investigation to determine why the first trucker went through a stop sign.
On the face of this case, the trucker who went through a stop sign will likely be cited for failure to obey traffic signs and possibly speeding and driving while distracted. While there was no mention of a cell phone or laptop in the police report, it doesn’t mean the trucker wasn’t on his cell phone either talking or texting when he ignored the stop sign.
He may also have been hunting for a map, watching a movie on his laptop or picking something up off the floor. There may also be the possibility he was under the influence of prescription drugs or had been driving too long and was exhausted. If any of these scenarios is the case, the family of the minivan driver will have a good case to file for a wrongful death lawsuit with an Arkansas accident lawyer.
In cases like this, it is best to discuss all options with a skilled personal injury lawyer with extensive experience handling 18-wheeler accidents. There are usually a number of things that need to be done right away, not the least of which is to preserve evidence, gather reports, pictures and medical records. Time is truly the enemy in crashes involving 18-wheelers, so don’t wait to speak to an Arkansas accident lawyer to find out what your rights are and what to expect if you have a viable case.
Michael G. Smith is an Arkansas personal injury lawyer and Arkansas accident lawyer, practicing personal injury law and veteran’s benefits in Arkansas. Learn more by visiting Arkansaslawhelp.com
