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Wal-Mart faces suit over accident that left one dead

On Behalf of | Jul 17, 2014 | Truck Accidents

Semi-trucks carry over half of the United States’ goods to various points across the several states, as well as Canada. Being a professional driver is not without its risk, as most auto accidents are caused by human error. The roadways are full of drivers being distracted by cell phones and other electronic devices, but semi-truck drivers who spend long hours traversing America’s interstates have to contend with a greater threat: fatigue.

Famed comedian Tracy Morgan has filed a lawsuit against Wal-mart for the injuries he incurred during a tragic truck accident that left one dead. The accident occurred when a Wal-Mart truck driver ran into the back of the limousine in which Morgan was riding. As a result of the accident, the comedian suffered a broken leg and ribs and has been undergoing intensive therapy ever since his release from the hospital. The lawsuit against Wal-Mart contends that the company should have known its driver had been awake for over 24 hours, ever since leaving his home a couple hours south of Rome, Ga. The suit alleges that the driver fell asleep at the wheel at the time of the accident. The driver of the semi-truck has been charged with multiple criminal charges relating to the man’s death and injuries he allegedly caused.

The serious injuries that can be inflicted upon the victim of a truck accident are numerous. They range from minor cuts and bruises to serious brain injury and death. When the cause of a victim’s injuries are performing their job duties as an employee, their employer can be held liable for any damages their employee causes. If Wal-Mart is found to have been negligent, it could mean they will be the one made to pay for all the injuries their employee caused by his actions. Some days, driving can be a major task by itself, but add in distractions, fatigue, or any number of other factors, and driving can be like playing an endless game of Russian roulette.

Source: FoxNews, “Tracy Morgan released from rehab month after crash,” AP, July 12, 2014

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