The dangers of distracted driving are often well-publicized. Unfortunately, some people may mistakenly believe that a cellphone is the only distraction in a vehicle. Reaching for an item or changing the radio station can often result in serious motor vehicle accidents, especially when done in potentially hazardous conditions, including at a construction site. In fact, a recent crash in Illinois is said to have sent 10 people to the hospital.
The incident happened on a day in mid-December. According to reports, a 53-year-old man driving a tractor-trailer allegedly reached for a drink as he approached a construction zone. Unfortunately, the truck struck a car, causing a chain-reaction accident that ultimately involved 10 vehicles.
Reports indicate that three people suffered serious injuries and were transported to the hospital by helicopter. The injuries of the other victims are not believed to be life-threatening. Although there are signs warning about construction beginning three miles from the start of the construction site, officials claim that there are frequent accidents in the vicinity, including an accident last month that killed four people. Officials are still working to determine what — if any — charges are appropriate in this recent crash.
Motor vehicle accidents involving commercial vehicles can have serious consequences, especially when there is a significant difference in size in vehicles involved. Even an act as seemingly innocent as reaching for tea can divert a driver’s attention long enough to cause a crash that sends multiple people to the hospital. The victims of this Illinois crash may be facing a long recovery, possibly due to the negligence of another. To help manage the costs associated with their injuries, including medical bills and lost wages, they may choose to seek damages from those deemed responsible, potentially including the driver’s employer in addition to the driver.
Source: bnd.com, “Three seriously injured in chain-reaction crash after semi driver went to pick up his tea”, Mary Cooley and Elizabeth Donald, Dec. 15, 2017
