It’s no secret that distracted driving is a big problem in Kentucky and across the United States. To safely navigate crowded roadways, motorists must always remain focused behind the wheel. Truck drivers are no exception. In fact, special licenses and hours of training are required just to legally operate tractor-trailers. Losing focus for just a split second is enough to cause deadly truck accidents.
According to Kentucky State Police, a recent fatal crash in Frankfort was caused by a distracted truck driver. The crash happened along the westbound lanes of Interstate 64 during the early evening hours. Reports said the driver of a tractor-trailer slammed into the rear of an SUV, causing the tractor-trailer and SUV to impact another SUV. Authorities said the driver of the first SUV was killed in the crash, while two others in the second SUV were injured and transported to a local hospital for treatment.
After an investigation, police said they determined that the driver of the tractor-trailer was watching a video on his phone and didn’t see the slowed traffic in time to avoid a crash. Reportedly, the truck driver was also not wearing his corrective lenses at the time of the crash, which were required by his medical card and commercial driver’s license. Police said the truck driver was charged with second-degree manslaughter.
Unfortunately, any accident involving a huge tractor-trailer stands a higher chance of being fatal. Unfortunately, some truck drivers take their responsibilities for granted and let distractions such as phones and other devices take their focus off of the road. Those in Kentucky who have been injured or lost loved ones due to negligence in truck accidents could greatly benefit by consulting an attorney. Damages from a successfully litigated claim could help victims and families cope with this traumatic experience.