Semi-trailer trucks pose a multitude of hazards to other Connecticut motorists, even when they are not moving. A recent multiple vehicle accident on I-95 in Greenwich essentially caused by a parked semi-trailer truck resulted in one fatality and serious injuries.
The accident
A Stamford woman was driving north in a 2018 Audi A4 on I-95 near Exit 2 just before 10:00 p.m. on July 1 when she was struck by a Mercedes Benz. The Audi was forced off the roadway to the right-hand shoulder, where the car smashed into the rear of a semi-trailer truck that was parked on the shoulder. The driver of the Audi was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigation showed that, after striking the Audi, the Mercedes struck a 2013 Honda Accord and spun off the highway, striking a light pole. The driver of the Mercedes, a resident of Stamford, sustained non-life-threatening injuries that necessitated hospitalization and treatment at Stamford Hospital. No further injuries were reported, but all vehicles were towed from the scene.
Liability
Liability in this case may be difficult to determine until the police have completed their investigation. Important issues include the distance between the Audi and the Mercedes and their respective speeds before the initial collision. Also, the semi-trailer truck may not have parked far enough from the northbound driving lane or displayed necessary warning signals. The investigating officers did not release any information about potential intoxication of any of the drivers.
Anyone who has suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a similar accident may wish to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for an evaluation of the evidence and an estimate of the likelihood of recovering damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
