Traffic laws and rules are in place for the protection and safety of everyone who travels on Tennessee roadways. A failure to adhere to any one of the many laws, or driving distracted, can result in serious and fatal car accidents. Sadly, a recent multi-vehicle accident resulted in one man's death.
A 78-year-old man was traveling eastbound in the morning when he was struck by a passenger van owned by the University of Tennessee. The driver of the van had pulled out in the older man's path, attempting to make a left turn. The impact of the van on the man's car resulted in a second collision as it pushed the car into another vehicle driven by a 66-year-old man. The second driver was waiting at a stoplight when his car became part of the collision.
Authorities believe that all drivers and passengers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. Despite the safety measures, the first driver became trapped in his vehicle. After extraction by rescue workers, he was pronounced dead on site. The other driver involved in the secondary collision also suffered injuries, and his condition is unknown, but no others involved in the crash reported injuries. Although drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be factors in the crash, blood tests are pending per accident investigation protocols.
Serious car accidents such as this one can change a family's life in a moment. Unexpected medical bills and funeral expenses can compound the sudden loss of a loved one and can create a financial burden. Tennessee personal injury attorneys can advise a family of how to manage the financial burden. Some families may wish to have an attorney assist with filing insurance claims, and others may wish to discuss the option of a lawsuit in civil court against any assumed negligent party.