Considering the extreme size of tractor-trailers, a truck accident with smaller vehicles can lead to catastrophic injuries for Missouri and Illinois residents. A deadly truck accident can seem even more tragic when it appears to be caused by a preventable reason, such as an intoxicated truck driver. One such recent tractor-trailer collision claimed the life of a newlywed Missouri man, injured his young wife, and resulted in injuries to several other individuals in another state.
According to authorities, the fatal crash was caused by a 54-year-old man driving a Freightliner truck. At the time, the truck driver was carrying a load of pavers. Officials report that the truck was headed northbound on I-17 at the time it slammed into the rear of a silver sedan, which resulted in a chain collision involving five vehicles in total. The 22-year-old driver of the sedan was originally extricated from his vehicle and transported for medical treatment; but sadly succumbed to his wounds at a hospital.
His young wife was also injured in the truck accident. The young couple had been wed for less than six months and both worked as engineers at Boeing in Missouri. Four other motorists suffered injuries in the collision. Reports indicate that the truck driver may have been operating his Freightliner while under the influence of Soma and other pain medications. He allegedly failed sobriety tests at the scene and exhibited signs of intoxication, including “droopy” eyes and slurring his speech.
Police also claim that he showed little emotion to the news that he had likely killed at least one victim in the accident. Apparently, his emotionless demeanor did not change when authorities said he could be facing homicide allegations in the wake of this tragic crash. Authorities in the other state plan to seek several criminal charges, including second-degree murder and aggravated assault, among others.
This truck accident has forever altered many lives, ending the husband’s life and leaving his wife behind to mourn. She retains the right to seek financial restitution through the filing of a civil lawsuit. A wrongful death claim could provide her damages to cover the costs associated with losing her young husband, although it will not be able to bring him back to life. Those who have similarly lost loved ones due to an intoxicated truck driver may benefit from dialing us toll-free at 1-888-586-7041. Our St. Louis personal injury law firm is experienced in representing truck accident victims and their surviving family members as they file claims to hold negligent parties responsible for causing injuries or lost lives.
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Source Article: http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/valleyfever/2014/11/dps_truck_driver_in_deadly_five-car_crash_showed_no_remorse_was_on_pain_med.php