Large commercial vehicle such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, dump trucks, and big-rigs pose a serious threat to motorists when they are not operated in a safe and responsible manner. Indeed, on March 11, 2019, a fatal Maryland truck accident claimed the lives of two people. According to a recent news report, the truck driver responsible for causing that accident now faces criminal charges, including manslaughter, for his role in causing the accident.
The accident occurred near the intersection of MD 24 and Ring Factory Road, at around 7 a.m. Evidently, there were several vehicles stopped at the intersection during rush hour traffic. However, as the truck approached, it did not slow down. The truck ended up rear-ending several of the stopped cars, which then caused a chain-reaction accident involving other nearby motorists. In all, the accident involved a total of 12 cars and trucks. Two vehicles were pinned underneath the semi-truck when it caught fire. A local businessman and a young boy were killed in the collision. Four others, including the young boy’s mother, were seriously injured.
After the fatal accident, police launched an in-depth investigation. They quickly determined that the truck driver was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, investigators believe that he may have been using his cell phone at the time of the accident. Thus, among the charges the truck driver faces are four counts of causing serious injury while using a cell phone.
Distracted Drivers Pose a Major Threat to Maryland Motorists
Distracted driving is a serious problem on Maryland roads. In fact, among the common causes of Maryland traffic accidents, distracted driving is the only one that continues to increase as a percentage of the total number of accidents. According to official statistics kept by the state government, nearly 20% of all Maryland car accidents are related to distracted driving, and these accidents injure approximately 30,000 people each year.
Of course, cell phone use is one of the most common types of distracted driving. However, other distractions include:
- Reading
- Eating
- Applying make-up
- Controlling the GPS or radio
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming
When a distracted driver causes a Maryland car accident, anyone injured as a result of the driver’s negligence can pursue a claim against the driver. Establishing liability through a personal injury lawsuit is not always straightforward, and certain cases may involve complex issues involving insurance coverage, shared fault, or vicarious liability. Thus, accident victims should consider consulting with a dedicated car accident attorney who is familiar with the relevant laws and regulations that apply to their specific type of case
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or someone you care about has recently suffered serious injuries after a Maryland truck accident, contact the dedicated injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC. At our Maryland law firm, we help accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve. We have a track record of success spanning the past 20 years, and know what it takes to succeed on our clients’ behalf. We also represent injury victims across Virginia, and the District of Columbia in other claims, including slip and fall cases and medical malpractice lawsuits. To learn more, call 800-654-1949 to schedule a free consultation today.