Infant Killed in Utah 18-Wheeler Accident
Two different pairs of 18-wheelers were involved in a multi-vehicle accident on a snow covered highway in Utah last week, near the border of Beaver County and Iron County. At least 7 people were hospitalized with injuries and one infant was reportedly killed in the crash.
According to reports, the pile-up was initiated after an 18-wheeler and a car collided. Moments later, another 18-wheeler headed in the same direction crashed into the rear of the first big rig. The accident led to a traffic block and several other accidents were reported. Soon after the initial pile-up, two other 18-wheelers jackknifed behind the vehicles that were already clogging Interstate 15. Utah Highway Patrol has confirmed that one infant was killed in the accident and 7 people were hospitalized with minor injuries.
A major disaster was averted by rescue crews after one of the 18-wheelers involved in the accident began leaking fuel. That truck contained 1,000 gallons of fuel, all of which had to be emptied from the truck before the highway could be reopened. According to Utah Highway Patrol officers, the roads were slick and slippery due to a snow storm earlier that day. Officers are pointing to this as the most likely cause for the accident.
18-wheeler drivers are required to drive, not only according to posted speed limits, but also taking into account the weather and traffic conditions on the road. Snow storms and heavy rains have lashed several parts of the country in recent weeks. These have left wet, slick roads in their wake and have made driving conditions more dangerous for motorists and for. For 18-wheelers, driving slowly and cautiously on slippery road surfaces is extremely important. These large vehicles are prone to jackknifing and, when they lose control on a slippery road, they create dangerous conditions for vehicles around them. During bad weather conditions normal speed limits for 18-wheelers should be ignored and drivers should slow down to ensure they retain control over their vehicles.
18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer
Filing claims for damages in a Utah truck accident or any 18-wheeler accident requires the expertise of a truck accident lawyer who can determine the amount of your claim and get you the resources you need.
If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, contact an 18-wheeler accident attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP for a free evaluation of your claim.
