There is no way to predict the outcome of a chain reaction crash involving several vehicles. People in some cars may walk away uninjured, some may suffer various degrees of injuries and others may lose their lives. In a recent chain reaction truck accident on U.S. Highway 54 here in Missouri, two people lost their lives, others were injured and some were lucky enough not to suffer any injuries.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that the accident occurred at around 3 p.m. An 18-wheeler heading westbound failed to stop for the traffic in front of him. The impact set off a chain reaction crash that ultimately involved seven passenger vehicles and the semi truck. Two of the cars burst into flames.
A 50-year-old woman and her 27-year-old daughter died at the scene. A 41-year-old woman, a 46-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man suffered unknown injuries for which they were transported to an area hospital. Their current conditions were not reported. Three others were reportedly uninjured. The driver of the tractor-trailer was taken into custody and could face charges of careless driving and involuntary manslaughter.
He could also face wrongful death actions from the family of the deceased mother and daughter and personal injury claims from the other victims injured in this truck accident. Monetary judgments could be entered against both the driver and his employer. If a Missouri court rules that the truck driver was negligent and that his actions caused or contributed to the deaths and injuries suffered in this accident, awards of damages could be considered.
Source: connectmidmissouri.com, “Update: Accident in Lake Ozark kills Eldon mother, daughter“, Dan Claxton, April 8, 2015
