WTAP reported a devastating incident on Saturday afternoon, July 15, 2023, a truck driver lost their life in a fatal accident on Interstate 77 in Parkersburg, West Virginia.
The incident unfolded near the 178 mile marker, where a tractor-trailer carrying brine water was traveling southbound on the interstate, as confirmed by the Wood County Sheriff's Office. While traversing the area near the Worthington Creek bridge, the tractor-trailer veered off the road to the right before swerving into the median, causing it to overturn, the sheriff's office reported. Investigators have determined that the crash was precipitated by the brine truck leaving the roadway, with a shift in cargo triggering the driver's loss of control, resulting in the tragic overturning of the vehicle.
Tragically, the cab of the truck suffered significant damage in the accident, and the driver succumbed to their injuries, the Wood County Sheriff's Office confirmed. Fortunately, there were no other vehicles involved in the incident.
The Wood County crash team has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The road had to be temporarily closed in both directions for several hours as authorities worked to clear the scene and gather evidence.
In the wake of the tragic truck accident on Interstate 77, we recently sat down with attorney Jesse Forbes, Esq., a wrongful death truck accident lawyer based in West Virginia, to shed light on what truck accident victims and their families can do to seek justice through civil cases against liable parties.
Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Paul. Could you explain to our readers the potential recourse that truck accident victims and their surviving families might have in pursuing a civil case?
Jesse Forbes: Of course. In situations like this, where a truck accident results in the loss of life, the surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. These civil cases allow families to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering caused by the untimely death of their loved one.
Darla Medina: That's certainly important information. Could you please elaborate on the parties that may be held liable in such cases?
Jesse Forbes: Certainly. Truck accidents can involve multiple parties that may share liability. While it is crucial to await the outcome of the official investigation, potential defendants in a civil case could include the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck or its components, and even parties responsible for maintenance or cargo loading. It's important to thoroughly examine the facts of the case to determine who may be held responsible for the accident.
Darla Medina: Understanding liability is vital. What steps should families take if they believe they have a wrongful death case following a truck accident?
Jesse Forbes: First and foremost, I would strongly advise families to seek legal counsel from an experienced truck accident attorney who specializes in wrongful death cases. These attorneys can guide them through the legal process, gathering evidence, determining liability, and calculating the appropriate compensation. Time is of the essence in such cases, as there are often strict statutes of limitations, so it's crucial to act promptly.
Darla Medina: Thank you for your insightful responses, Mr. Bucci. Is there any additional advice or message you would like to share with our readers?
Jesse Forbes: Absolutely, Darla. To all the families affected by this tragic accident, I offer my deepest condolences. Remember that you are not alone in this difficult journey. Seeking legal representation from an experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.