A multi-vehicle car accident that occurred in Monongalia County on August 9th, 2016, left one dead. The accident occurred on I-79 near mile marker 150 at around 4am. According to West Virginia State Police, a PAM tractor trailer and tow truck were pulled over onto the side of the interstate when a PPG tractor trailer crashed into the vehicles. An individual inside the PAM truck was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. West Virginia State Police are still investigating the cause of the incident.
When a tractor trailer is involved in a motor vehicle accident, the risk factors are increased and can often result in serious injuries and fatalities. This is largely due to the size and weight of the tractor trailers compared to that of a regular vehicle. If you or a loved one have been injured in a tractor trailer accident, it is important to act quickly. Often times, an accident involving a commercial vehicle can be more complicated due to company policies, and state and federal laws.
While there are many reasons accidents occur, the main causes of tractor trailer accidents include:
· Driver Fatigue
· Unbalanced or shifting loads
· Inexperienced drivers
· Speed
· Distracted driving
· Mechanical Defects
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in 2014, 3,660 people died in trucking related collisions. Of those people, 16 percent were truck occupants while 68 percent were occupants of cars and passenger vehicles. Truck crash related fatalities rose sixteen percent between 2009 and 2014.
Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.
We offer a free initial consultation at our office in the Manchin Professional Building — our home since 1983 — conveniently located in Fairmont.
If you are unable to visit our firm, we can come to your home or hospital room.
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