Drivers in Arizona are aware that the roadways are often the stage for accidents. Numerous vehicles of different sizes utilize and rely on these roadways to get to and from work. In some cases, the road is the work environment for some workers. Whether traveling on the road or working on or near a busy roadway, drivers should be aware of their surroundings to avoid hazards. Even the smallest distraction could result in a serious collision.
Authorities recently responded to a truck accident that seriously injured a Department of Public Safety worker seriously injured and another person dead. According to preliminary reports, the DPS service truck was parked on the shoulder of Loop 202 and was underneath an overpass. A pickup truck that was traveling on the roadway lost control and struck the rear of the service truck.
Emergency crews responded to the scene. A DPS employee was injured in the crash and was transported to the hospital for treatment. The 35-year-old driver of the pickup truck did not survive the injuries suffered in the truck crash.
The accident is still under investigation and officers are determining whether the driver was under the influence at the time of the crash. Commenters on the crash stated that this collision could have been avoided if the driver obeyed the Move Over Law, which requires motorist to move over one lane when a vehicle is pulled over on the side of the road.
If a driver is found negligent and authorities determine they are at fault, those injured or killed as a result could file a claim against the driver. Even if the negligent driver was killed in the collision, the claim could be filed against their estate. In this case, the injured worker could file a personal injury claim in order to recover compensation to cover expenses such as medical bills, damages, lost wages and pain and suffering.
When a negligent driver affects a driver or a passenger, they should understand their rights and options. This often means seeking compensation to cover the financial burdens that resulted from the crash. Understanding the process and the time line for filing will often make it easier on the injured and their loved ones.
Source: My FOX Phoenix, “Arizona DPS employee injured in freeway accident,” Mia Garcia, Oct. 25, 2013