North Carolina NC DOT driver kills an off-duty police officer
The Rocky Mountain Telegram reported, on April 15, 2014, that a North Carolina DOT (Department of Transportation) driver caused an accident on NC 111 when he crossed the center line. The NC DOT’s vehicle, an excavator truck, collided with a van driven by an off-duty police officer who was killed in the accident. The police officer was trapped in the van. NC DOT is responsible for traffic safety in North Carolina.
The deceased police officer was the father of two children. His family will now bring a wrongful death claim against the NC DOT driver and any other responsible parties, including possibly, the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
Legal issues in this type of case
- Elements of a wrongful death claim: The police officer’s family will have the right to sue for funeral bills, loss of income, loss of society, and personal pain and suffering caused by the loss of a loved one
- Can the Department of Transportation be sued?: Normally, the owner of the truck or the party responsible for putting the truck on the road would also be sued. When the responsible party is a state agency, there are sometimes laws and requirements that dictate when lawsuits against state agencies are allowed. A good plaintiff’s lawyer will know those laws and requirements.
- Vans and trucks create difficult situations: The physics of accidents between larger vehicles can create deadly situations. A plaintiff’s lawyer will investigate exactly how the accident happened.
Contact a North Carolina Accident Lawyer Today
Accidents involving larger vehicles, such as trucks and vans, can result in devastating injuries, financial losses, and sadly, death. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a truck or van accident, the good news is that help is available. Attorney Joe Miller at Joe Miller Law, knows what it takes to effectively represent accident victims in North Carolina and Virginia, and he is ready to put this experience to work fighting to protect your rights and interests. Learn more by discussing your unique situation with him today by calling (888) 694-1671.
