Semi tractor-trailer trucks pose a special risk on the nation’s interstate highways. The high speeds at which these trucks commonly travel, their large size and mass, and other hazards innate in the trucks’ design and construction often result in serious accidents with severe injuries, death, and property damage. A tragic and unfortunately classic example of this phenomenon occurred recently in Northern Georgia.
The accident
The accident began near the Folsom Road Exit when a north-bound big rig collided with an automobile as it was attempting to avoid a collision with a south-bound semi. This collision caused the big rig to skid into the north-bound lane where it collided with two 18-wheelers. The three semis then collided with a Ford Ranger, setting the pick-up afire.
Three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and two others were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment of their injuries.
The loss of three lives and the significant degree of property damage virtually guarantees that several lawsuits will be commenced in the near future. The large number of parties involved create a very high likelihood that several insurance companies will be drawn into the litigation. Each of the parties and their insurers will spend a high number of hours trying to evaluate individual claims and to assess liability.
Liability could fall on any of the drivers who may have been negligent. This conclusion could be altered if one or more of the truck owners is shown to be negligent in the care and maintenance of one of their vehicles. One or more of the drivers of the involved automobiles may also be blamed for partial fault in causation.