Tractor-Trailer Drives Through Motorcyclists
A tractor-trailer striking a group of motorcyclists on an interstate is just about one of the worst combinations one can imagine. Tragic news of a horrific I-85 wreck today of a tractor-trailer that veered off the interstate and struck multiple motorcyclists this morning.
At least one motorcyclist is dead and several (exact number unknown) were taken to the hospital and are in critical condition. Both the driver and passenger in truck are reported as being okay.
According to reports, it is initially believed the driver of the tractor-trailer may have fallen asleep at the wheel, swerved off the roadway and struck the motorcyclists on the shoulder then proceeded another half mile before stopping due to flattened tire. Thus the crash site is spread out over at least a half mile or more. The crash occurred around 6 a.m. this morning.
Interstate Shoulders
Large trucks striking vehicles on the shoulder of highways is a far too common occurrence. I have blogged frequently about how dangerous it is to pull to the shoulder of a highway or interstate and it is just because of this reason. Seems every year, we read about a gruesome crash where a tractor-trailer driver falls asleep and crashes into disabled vehicles on the shoulder. Truck driver fatigue and truck driver failure to stop has been a topic of the media especially since the rear-end crash involving the serious injuries to Tracy Morgan and the death of comedian James McNair in June of 2014.
As well, closer to home, a deadly crash on Interstate 39 involved a semi-truck that hit a killed a fire-fighter while the fire-fighters were responding to another motor vehicle crash. The truck failed to stop and the driver stated he was going no more than 50 mph but still struck the Hudson fire vehicle, killing one and injuring four others. Several deaths have occurred on Interstate 55 when trucks hit disabled vehicles.
In fact, for several years, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has made public service announcements about how to proceed if your vehicle becomes stranded. One of their suggestions is to NEVER stop on a shoulder of a highway or interstate unless it is a true emergency. They advise drivers of disabled cars to immediately call 911 or *55, leave the vehicle and get off the side as far away as possible.
Truck Driver Fatigue
Truck driver fatigue is an enormous issue in this country. There have been studies that show that truck driver fatigue causes as much impairment as drugs or alcohol. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has rules for truck drivers that requires they drive only a certain amount of hours in a 40 hour time period. Commercial drivers are held to a higher standard of safety and should be. They are Professional drivers and the vehicles they drive can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and can cause tremendous damage as seen above.
The horror of today’s crash will not quickly be forgotten and it should not be. Tragedies of this nature need to be investigated thoroughly. This story needs to shared if for no other reason than to raise awareness. Often nowadays, trucks have black boxes or recording devices that record speeds, time of operation, brake applications and much other information that requires trucking companies to strictly follow FMCSA regulations.
Injured in a Truck or Motorcycle Crash
Generally, individuals who are involved in a motorcycle crash or a tractor trailer crash are usually hurt badly. If you or a loved one is injured, then you will need legal representation. In the days following such a tragedy, it is very difficult to face the injuries or deaths in such drastic situations. Negotiating or the mere thought of legal ramifications are simply too much for injured victims or their families. It is a time when you should consult an attorney you can trust and one that is experienced in FMCSA regulations. Our attorneys are available seven days a week for free consultations. Whether you call us or another expert truck accident attorney, consult an attorney for your protection and your family.
Call locally 314-276-1681 or toll free 1-800-685-3302
Summary Article Name Motorcyclist Hit by Tractor-Trailer after Truck Veers Off Interstate Author Zane T. Cagle Description At least one person was killed and four or more injured when a truck veered off the interstate and hit a group of motorcyclists on the shoulder.Share This:
