Dump truck accident kills 1, road closures

 Posted on August 06, 2015 in Truck Accidents

California residents may have read the national news reports about a person who was killed after a dump truck slammed into an overpass in New Jersey on Aug. 4. According to a state police captain, the truck was traveling on the New Jersey turnpike when it collided with the Wood Avenue overpass at about 10:30 a.m.

The crash occurred in the southbound lanes of the turnpike. The truck overturned and its driver was killed. The accident also caused a fire to ignite, and authorities closed both lanes of the turnpike until it could be determined if the overpass's stability had been compromised. Additionally, gas and power lines were also compromised. The traffic reportedly became backed up for miles and some of the lanes were expected to be closed until midnight.

Because trucks are much larger than other types of vehicles, an accident involving one is likely to leave people with serious injuries. In some cases, the injuries could be severe enough to result in death. If a person was killed in a crash caused by the negligence of a truck driver, the surviving family members may want to consider filing a wrongful death lawsuit.

When a fatal accident does occur, an attorney will collect evidence to establish that the decedent did not cause the crash. This evidence may include the police reports and any eyewitness testimony. In some instances, these cases can be settled outside of court through negotiations. In other instances, however, the attorney can proceed to litigation.

Source: ABC News, "Truck Crash Ties up New Jersey Turnpike for Hours; 1 Dead", Aug. 4, 2015

Source: CBS New York, "NJ Turnpike Reopens Hours After Truck Fire In Linden; Driver Dead", Aug. 4, 2015