On Monday, a 44 year old tractor trailer driver from Texas was killed on Interstate 81. He was traveling in the southbound lane when a tire bounced onto the interstate and through his windshield. The tire had come off of a horse trailer being hauled by a 1999 Ford Pickup truck.
On September 26, 2007, a 54 year old tractor trailer driver was injured and had to be airlifted to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital after dual wheel sets flew off of a tanker truck on Interstate 81 in Montgomery County.
Some people mistakenly believe that these are simply “freak accidents”. If you think about it, what are the chances that a wheel will bounce at the exact point and with such force that it will actually hit the driver’s side windshield of a huge tractor trailer?
Apparently, they are more common than most of us would like to think. And the most tragic thing about it, is that these accidents are preventable. All vehicles, including trailers should be inspected for faulty equipment before hitting the road. And with summer driving season approaching, rooftop carriers, bike racks, kayaks, and other items that are placed on the exterior of the vehicle should be inspected as well.
If you need help with the impact wrongful death has had on you or your family, call an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Roanoke. The call is free, so dial (877) 471-3353.
