2 Killed in Semi-Truck Crash
Road hazards can cause serious accidents and even fatalities. It’s important to stay alert while driving and avoid puddles. Water on the road can cause hydroplaning, loss of control, and fatal accidents.
Sadly, this was recently the case in Winter Haven. A car collided with a semi-truck, killing two young men inside the car. The fatal accident occurred on the afternoon of August 31 on Recker Highway, near Commercial Boulevard.
A Buick LaCrosse drove through a large puddle and lost control. It went into the southbound lane and collided with a 53-foot Coca Cola semi-trailer. This then caused both vehicles to crash into a utility pole.
The two people inside the LaCrosse — a 19-year-old man from Auburndale and an 18-year-old man from Winter Haven — suffered blunt force trauma and were killed in the crash. The 18-year-old man was ejected from the vehicle. Neither one was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Coca-Cola truck was a 61-year-old man from Riverview. He was taken to a hospital to be treated for his injuries and was later released. The crash is still under investigation.
Dangers of Truck Accidents
Semi trucks are an important part of our economy. We depend on them to transport food, fuel and other vital goods and commodities to our communities.
However, they are dangerous, and making them safer has been a real issue. Thousands of people are killed in truck accidents every year. Most of these victims are occupants of smaller vehicles.
A truck’s large size and weight are the biggest issues, as well as cargo falling into the road. Underride and override accidents can also be problematic. These are caused by the disparity in vehicle size. An underride accident is when a smaller car gets wedged beneath the trailer of a commercial truck. An override accident is when a big rig drives up and over a smaller car. In either case, the occupants of the smaller car face the highest risk of injuries and fatalities.
Truck accidents can happen in a number of ways. Speeding and careless driving are common. So is distracted driving, with many drivers using their smartphones while behind the wheel. Failure to yield right of way also accounts for many accidents. Truck drivers may also be fatigued from spending so many consecutive hours behind the wheel. Many consume alcohol and drugs to stay awake, but these substances tend to act as depressants, making drivers even more tired. Vehicle-related problems, such as brake problems or tire issues, can also cause truck accidents.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Colliding with a huge truck is a recipe for disaster. People often die. Those who survive tend to suffer from catastrophic injuries.
If you have been a victim, contact a Bradenton truck accident lawyer from Cahall Law Firm. We understand this can be a terrifying situation. Let us help you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form to schedule a free consultation with our office.
Source:
wfla.com/news/polk-county/2-killed-after-car-crashes-into-coca-cola-semi-truck-in-winter-haven/
