Man Dies in Crash Truck Accident
A West Virginia man recently died in a crash in August County. The crash occurred in the northbound lanes of Interstate 81 at the 233-mile marker.
According to law enforcement, the incident occurred when a tractor-trailer headed north in the left lane rear-ended a stationary crash truck in a highway work zone.
The impact caused the Ford F-650 crash truck to run into the median and overturn. The driver of the crash truck, 32-year-old Shawn P. Dick of Paw Paw died at the scene. Dick had the amber lights flashing and the arrow board activates at the time of the crash.
Charges are pending against the 23-year-old driver of the tractor-trailer. He was transported to Augusta Health for treatment.
Road Hazards are Often Causes of Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 90 percent of all motor vehicle accidents in the United States are caused by some type of human error. However, these errors are often linked to road hazards. When drivers are not paying attention and are unaware of their surroundings when driving, and road hazards arise, the results can be deadly.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, regardless of whether there was a hazard or driver error involved, you must understand that:
- You have rights
- You should not immediately accept an insurance settlement
- You have the best chance of recovering what you are due if you work with an experienced personal injury accident attorney
What are Some of the Most Common Road Hazards Drivers Encounter?
In addition to construction and highway safety vehicles, drivers are exposed to numerous hazards while on the road.
For example:
- Animals, debris, and other objects in the road
- Construction equipment
- Lack of cones, blockades, and signage to alert drivers to possible hazards
- Potholes and manholes
- Unevenly paved roads
- Poorly marked lanes and/or reflectors
- Lack of guardrails
- Lack of signals
Failing to warn drivers of potential hazards can lead to severe consequences. But even if drivers are warned, they sometimes fail to obey safe driving requirements. Regardless of the situation, if you’re injured in a vehicle accident, you could be eligible for compensation.
At Heavens Law, we’ve worked with people injured in accidents involving road hazards, tractor-trailers, and more.
For more information or to discuss your situation, contact Heavens Law at 484-467-8254. All phone consultations are free and confidential, with no obligation beyond that.