The loss of any life in an accident is a tragedy that can have effects for years to come. When an incident involves the deaths of children, the situation can seem almost unfathomable. Truck accidents can often lead to such devastating outcomes, and if the crash also involves pedestrians, it is likely that the results will lead to emotional struggles and possibly legal action.
An incident in Illinois recently led to the deaths of three individuals. It was reported that a 30-year-old woman, a 9-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy were attempting to cross a street when they were struck by a turning semi-truck. The pedestrians were in a crosswalk when the incident took place, and a witness stated that the three individuals were holding hands as they crossed the street.
All three were seriously injured in the accident, and sadly, all three later succumbed to those injuries after being transported to the hospital. It was reported that the driver of the semi-truck was cited in the incident for failure to yield to pedestrians. It is unclear whether additional charges may be leveled against the truck driver since the event led to multiple fatalities.
The outcomes of truck accidents are often difficult to handle, and this situation is no different. The family members of the individuals killed in this accident are likely distraught over the news that the woman and two young children were fatally injured. Because funeral costs and other expenses can cause a financial strain, the family may wish to explore their legal options. Filing a wrongful death claim against the driver deemed at fault, as well as the driver’s employer, may allow them to seek reparations for damages permitted under Illinois law.
Source: CBS Chicago, “Driver Cited After Woman, Two Children Fatally Struck By Semi-Truck“, March 6, 2015