Fatal Semi Truck Accident in Oklahoma
A semi truck accident in Chickasha, Oklahoma has left two dead, according to Oklahoma officials. The crash occurred on May 27, 2014 after a commercial vehicle struck an oil field truck that was attempting to cross U.S. 62 from CR 2790.
An Oklahoma highway patrol trooper stated that four individuals were traveling in the pickup truck, two who were killed and two who were taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition until they are stable enough to be transported to a facility in Oklahoma City.
According to the trooper, the driver of the semi truck sustained minor injuries and may need to seek medical attention for further evaluation of his condition. Officials believe that the accident occurred when the driver of the pickup truck failed to yield to eastbound traffic and was hit by the semi truck.
Whether a semi truck driver is at fault for causing an accident or not, the consequences of these incidents are often devastating due to the size and weight difference between commercial vehicles and passenger cars. According to a recent study from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 20 percent of all semi truck accidents are caused by driver fatigue.
In an attempt to reduce the number of semi truck accidents throughout the U.S., the FMCSA mandates that semi truck drivers of vehicles weighing more than 10,001 pounds and who are traveling on interstates can only drive for 11 continuous hours in one 14-hour workday. After this, drivers are required to take a mandatory 10-hour rest period before resuming their trip.
However, simply because laws exist to regulate driver fatigue, distracted driving and other common causes of semi truck accidents, this does not necessarily mean that all drivers and trucking companies follow these regulations. Those who have been injured in a semi truck accident due to the fault or negligence of another may be entitled to recover damages for their condition and pursue a claim against those responsible.
Do You Need Legal Representation?
If you or someone you love has been injured in an Oklahoma semi truck accident, you may consider seeking legal counsel as soon as possible to learn more about your rights. Even if it is alleged the accident is not the semi truck driver’s fault, an experienced attorney can help make sure your rights are protected and all aspects of responsibility have been explored. Attorney Group for Oklahoma can evaluate your case and help you determine if you are eligible to seek damages for your injuries. There is no cost to speak with us, and we can connect you with an affiliated attorney who can handle your claim and work to help you seek the compensation to which you may be entitled.
