Truck and minivan collide injuring 2 and killing 1
Following an accident, determining the cause could take some time. When the collision resulted in severe damage, serious injuries and fatalities, it can be difficult coping with the situation while the investigation continues on. Not having answers can cause anguish and upset and could prolong the healing process. Furthermore, a fatal accident could create financial burdens for the loved ones of the victim. Although it is important to have a full and complete investigation, knowing the cause could reveal fault and liability, which could allow for the loved ones to have a cause of action for compensation.
Authorities are currently investigating a truck accident that recently occurred on a New York State Thruway in Tuxedo, New Jersey. The collision involved a tractor-trailer and a minivan and took the life of the New Jersey truck driver. According to preliminary reports, the truck crash happened around 8:20 p.m. when the minivan traveling ahead of the tractor-trailer reduced its speed, turned on its flashers and attempted to pull over on to the right shoulder. This resulted in the truck rear-ending the minivan.
The collision between the two vehicles caused the minivan to crash into a tree while the tractor-trailer traveled into the woods and jackknifed into a tree. When emergency crews responded to the crash, the truck driver was extricated from the large vehicle and was transported to the hospital where he later died from the injuries he suffered. The minivan had three occupants at the time of the collision and two of them were transported to the hospital for treatment of their injuries.
The fatal truck crash is still under investigation and it isn’t clear who caused the accident at this time. Authorities will need to determine which driver was at fault, which could result in civil suits being filed. In this case, if the driver of the minivan was at fault, a wrongful death claim could be filed in order to recover the costs for medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages and damages. If the truck driver was negligent, those that suffered injuries may be able to file a personal injury claim for their pain and suffering.
Source: Times Herald-Record, “N.J. truck driver killed in Thruway crash,” Sept. 10, 2013
