Catastrophic truck crash in New Jersey results from a sneeze
Traffic accidents always have the potential to be catastrophic, but some collisions have a greater likelihood of causing significant injury and damage. A truck accident is one example of this, often resulting in a worse outcome due to the size and weight of the truck in comparison with other vehicles and objects.
In East Hanover, New Jersey, a garbage truck recently caused tremendous damage when it crashed into the side of a home. In addition to the destruction caused when the truck drove through the side of the home, the situation was worsened when the truck’s exhaust started a fire in the home. The accident happened at approximately 8:00am. None of the home’s residents was hurt, although the truck did go through one of the children’s bedrooms. The driver of the truck claims that he sneezed and a drink container got stuck underneath the brake pedal, which prevented him from stopping the truck as it jumped the curb and plowed into the house.
Although this truck crash saw no serious injuries, the property damage is extreme. The crash and the fire caused severe structural damage and the home was ultimately demolished. In these situations, if property owners do not have a way to recover damages, the financial setbacks of such an incident can be devastating. If a property owner chooses to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover compensation, an investigation will ensue to determine fault and liability.
While many individuals may be inadequately insured to compensate victims after a serious crash, truck drivers and the companies who employ them may both be held liable, which gives victims a greater chance of recovering the needed compensation. Because of the corporate structures involved, however, fighting with the truck companies and insurance companies in order to reach a settlement may be quite an undertaking. An experienced attorney can help navigate these complex waters, conduct thorough investigations and ensure that victims get the money they need and deserve.
Source: NJ.com, “Sneeze may have prompted garbage truck crash, fire that destroyed East Hanover home,” Justin Zaremba, May 8, 2013
