Many Delaware drivers use GPS systems in their personal vehicles. These navigation systems can make it much easier to go on a long trip or simply to get around town. However, these devices must be used safely. This is easier said than done, considering drivers must usually look at the screen to view the map. Truck drivers, in particular, must be exceptionally careful when using their GPS, so as not to inadvertently cause truck accidents on the road.
A glance at GPS system may be behind a recent tanker truck crash in Newport. The incident took place on July 18 in the northbound lanes of Interstate 95. According the police, the chain of events resulting in a collision started when a truck driver glanced at his GPS. The truck collided with a Subaru, swerved, struck a guardrail and then overturned and spilled its fuel. A passenger in the other vehicle had to be taken to a hospital, but the individual’s injuries were reported as non-life-threatening. The wreck closed several lanes near I-295 for more than three hours.
The 40-year-old truck driver had to be pulled from the wreckage and suffered serious injuries. Police have charged him with being an inattentive truck driver, not having proof of insurance and other offenses. The Delaware State Police are investigating the incident.
Even when a truck driver faces charges from police, he or she can still be held accountable for harmful negligence in civil court. A personal injury lawsuit is one way that victims of truck accidents can remedy their sudden and shocking situation. A civil lawsuit can result in compensation for damages suffered, such as unexpected medical bills and lost wages, if the accident victim misses work due to their injuries. A Delaware personal injury attorney can offer more information on initiating a truck accident lawsuit.
Source: ABC 6, “Driver facing charges in tanker truck crash on I-95 in Newport, Delaware,” July 18, 2015
