Tractor-trailers are a common site on the road in some parts of West Virginia and elsewhere across the country. However, they are large, heavy vehicles that take skill and care to maneuver. If a driver of one of these vehicles is not careful, he or she can cause serious injury to others on the road. In a car accident involving a tractor-trailer, the occupants of the car usually fare much worse than the driver of the semi-truck.
Almost exactly two years ago, a car had a terrible encounter with a tractor-trailer. Two of the occupants, one just a baby, were injured. Now the woman who was hurt in the accident is suing the trucking company and the driver for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages for both herself and her child. The suit is alleging “negligent, careless and/or reckless conduct” on the part of the driver.
The plaintiff was a passenger in the front seat of the car, which was being driven by her husband. Her infant daughter was in the back seat. They were driving in Kanawha County when they encountered the tractor-trailer at an intersection on U.S. 60. The driver of the semi-truck allegedly drove his vehicle from a private road into the car’s path.
Victims of accidents caused by drivers of commercial vehicles can and should bring legal action against not only the at-fault driver, but the company that employs the driver. These companies are supposed to ensure that their drivers are qualified to operate these heavy vehicles and that they do so responsibly. If they do not, they can and should be held responsible for the injuries and damage they cause.
Source: West Virginia Record, “Woman sues Medford Trucking over car accident” Kyla Asbury, Nov. 28, 2013
