Oklahoma City, OK – It is possible that multiple large commercial vehicles can be involved in the same crash. If this happens, there can be serious amounts of property damage and injuries or fatalities to the people involved.
Lawyers may be required to represent the victims and seek compensation on their behalf.
Multiple semi trucks involved in fatal crash on I-35
On April 12th, 2023, a deadly crash occurred on Interstate 35 in southern Oklahoma involving two semi-trucks [1]. The accident occurred around 4 a.m. near the Love’s Travel Stop in Davis, Oklahoma, and resulted in the death of one of the truck drivers.
According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP), a northbound semi-truck driver lost control of their vehicle and crossed the center median into the southbound lanes, colliding head-on with another semi-truck. The driver of the southbound semi-truck was killed instantly, and the driver of the northbound semi-truck sustained serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.
The crash caused significant damage to both semi-trucks and resulted in the closure of both northbound and southbound lanes of I-35 for several hours. The OHP and emergency responders worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the crash.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of driving on the highway, especially for commercial drivers who spend long hours on the road. Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and require a longer stopping distance than other vehicles, making them more susceptible to accidents. Additionally, fatigue and distracted driving can also contribute to accidents involving commercial vehicles.
In response to this accident, the OHP urged drivers to remain vigilant while driving and to avoid distractions such as cell phones or other electronic devices. They also advised commercial drivers to take regular breaks to prevent fatigue and to adhere to traffic laws and regulations.
The transportation industry has long been aware of the dangers of fatigue and distraction on the road and has taken steps to address these issues. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented regulations requiring commercial drivers to take rest breaks and limiting the number of hours they can work in a day. Additionally, many companies have implemented technology that monitors drivers’ hours of service and can alert them when they need to take a break.
However, accidents such as the one that occurred on I-35 serve as a reminder that there is still more work to be done to improve safety on our highways. The transportation industry must continue to prioritize safety and work towards implementing new technologies and regulations to prevent accidents and protect drivers and passengers.
In the aftermath of the crash, the OHP and other agencies worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the accident. They collected evidence and interviewed witnesses in an effort to determine what caused the driver of the northbound semi-truck to lose control of their vehicle.
Accidents involving commercial vehicles often require extensive investigation due to the complexity of the vehicles and the potential impact of factors such as driver fatigue or mechanical failure. The OHP and other agencies will continue to investigate this accident and work to prevent future tragedies. Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers may also represent the victims and their families.
In conclusion, the deadly crash on I-35 serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safe driving practices and the need for continued efforts to improve safety on our highways. As we move towards a more connected and autonomous transportation future, it is essential that we prioritize safety and work to prevent accidents and protect drivers and passengers.
The process to bring a case against a negligent commercial driver in Oklahoma
Suing a commercial vehicle driver in Oklahoma requires a thorough understanding of state and federal regulations, as well as the legal process for pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Here are the steps to take when pursuing legal action against a commercial vehicle driver in Oklahoma:
- Seek Medical Attention: If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is not only important for your health, but also for your legal case, as medical records will serve as evidence of your injuries.
- Contact an Attorney: It is essential to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process.
- Investigate the Accident: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine liability and gather evidence to support your claim. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, and examining the commercial vehicle and any other vehicles involved.
- File a Lawsuit: If your attorney determines that you have a strong case, they will file a lawsuit against the commercial vehicle driver and their employer. It is important to file the lawsuit within the statute of limitations, which in Oklahoma is two years from the date of the accident.
- Discovery and Depositions: During the discovery phase, both sides will exchange information and evidence. Your attorney will also conduct depositions of the driver, their employer, and any witnesses to the accident.
- Settlement or Trial: Many personal injury cases are settled out of court through negotiations between the parties. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine liability and damages.
- Collecting Damages: If you are successful in your lawsuit, you will be awarded damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Your attorney will work to collect these damages from the commercial vehicle driver and their employer.
Suing a commercial vehicle driver in Oklahoma can be a complex and lengthy process, but with the help of experienced Oklahoma truck accident lawyers, you can receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
More info is available from a local lawyer
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Sources:
- https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/traffic/2023/04/12/deadly-crash-interstate-35-semi-trucks-southern-oklahoma-wednesday/70108706007/
