Walmart Truck Accident Lawsuit Highlights the Serious Dangers of Truck Driver Negligence

Nearly a year after being seriously injured in a truck accident that made national headlines, comedian Tracy Morgan has settled his case against Walmart, the owner of the truck involved, for an undisclosed amount.  News of the settlement comes several months after the family of a man killed in the accident, James McNair, reached a settlement with the Walmart for $10 million. 

Ohio Truck Accident Lawyer Perspective: An Avoidable Tragedy

Readers of this blog will recall that Morgan, McNair, and others were riding in a limousine when their vehicle was struck by a Walmart truck.  The driver of the Walmart truck, who is currently facing criminal charges for the crash and who, it is alleged, had not slept for more than a day prior to the accident, was driving twenty miles per hour over the speed limit when he struck Morgan’s limousine.  Four were injured in the crash, and Morgan’s battle with traumatic brain injury and subsequent rehabilitation have kept the accident in the news.

Truck accidents like this one happen all the time, and frequently are the result of avoidable errors made by careless and overtired truck drivers.  This accident implicates two of the most common forms of truck driver negligence—speeding and drowsy driving—but distracted driving, failure to properly inspect a rig before driving, and reckless operation are all serious risks to other motorists. 

Individual truck drivers are responsible for their actions, and their negligence is unacceptable.  But the role of employers in trucking accident cases cannot be ignored.  Businesses like Walmart and many others pressure and in some cases create policies that incentivize employees into driving too fast, with too little rest, and too little regard for public safety.  The results, unfortunately, can be deadly.

If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.  Contact an Ohio truck accident lawyer at Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA for a free consultation today.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.