After trying to settle the case in mediation, a trucking company and several plaintiffs will head to court to resolve a wrongful death claim. The claim stems from a 2007 fatal truck accident in East Lyme. The case was moved to Hartford Superior Court from New London because of the complexity of the claim.

According to the lawsuit and witnesses, a tanker truck and a tractor-trailer were racing each other down the highway before the crash. Witnesses said they were speeding and driving recklessly when one of the drivers lost control and crashed into multiple vehicles. The driver of the tanker truck died in the truck accident along with two others. Three others were injured. The injured individuals and the estates of those who died are seeking compensation from the companies who owned the two trucks involved. Because the plaintiffs and the trucking companies could not reach an agreement on compensation, a jury will decide after the April 9 trial.

Court records suggest that the plaintiffs are seeking millions of dollars in compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Jurors are currently being chosen to hear the case. It will be interesting to see what they decide.

Although this case stems from a tragic accident that no one ever hopes to experience, it clearly illustrates the legal options available for truck accident victims. Trucking companies are required to adhere to federal laws — which include maintaining their vehicles and adequately training their drivers — and when they do not, they can be held accountable through personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits.

Source: The Day, “Deadly I-95 crash case headed for trial,” Karen Florin, March 26, 2013