Interstate 12 (I-12) stretches across Louisiana, connecting Baton Rouge to the eastern part of the state, including the cities of Hammond and Slidell. Though it serves as a crucial corridor for commercial transportation and trade, I-12 also sees its fair share of truck accidents, many of which involve semi-trucks.
These accidents can cause severe injuries and even fatalities, not just for truck drivers but also for passengers in other vehicles. For those affected by truck accidents on I-12, the legal process that follows can be complex, especially as it involves trucking companies, driver regulations, and other factors contributing to the crash.
In this article, we explore some past I-12 crashes and the legal aftermath of them. If you’ve been hurt in a trucking crash, contact our New Orleans truck accident lawyers today.
The 2020 I-12 Crash in Tangipahoa Parish
In September 2020, a tragic accident occurred on I-12 near Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana. A semi-truck carrying industrial materials collided with a passenger vehicle during rush hour traffic, resulting in the death of a 34-year-old woman.
According to reports, the truck driver was speeding and failed to adjust to heavy traffic conditions. The crash caused a chain reaction, with several other vehicles involved.
The Legal Case
After the accident, an investigation revealed that the trucking company had failed to properly monitor the driver’s work hours. The trucker had been on the road for over 14 hours, far exceeding the federally mandated limit for consecutive driving hours.
This violation of hours-of-service regulations, combined with the truck’s failure to stop in time due to excessive speed, was a key factor in the crash.
The victim’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against both the driver and the trucking company, claiming negligence in failing to comply with federal safety standards. The case was settled out of court for a significant amount, providing compensation to the family for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
2018 I-12 Pile-Up in Baton Rouge
Another significant accident occurred in 2018, involving a semi-truck and multiple passenger vehicles near Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This multi-vehicle pile-up resulted in injuries to six people, including two children, who were traveling in a minivan.
The accident was caused when a semi-truck failed to stop in time and collided with several vehicles that had slowed due to heavy traffic ahead.
The Legal Case
Investigators later found that the truck’s brakes were severely worn and in need of repair. The driver had not performed the required pre-trip inspection, which is mandatory under federal law. In addition to brake failure, the truck was found to be overloaded, contributing to the truck’s inability to stop on time.
The victims filed lawsuits against both the truck driver and the trucking company for negligence, arguing that the company had failed to ensure the truck was properly maintained and that the driver was negligent in performing a basic inspection.
The case went to court, and the trucking company was found liable for the damages caused by their lack of maintenance and failure to follow safety protocols.
2016 I-12 Collision in Slidell
In 2016, a severe accident occurred on I-12 near Slidell, Louisiana, when a semi-truck, traveling westbound, lost control and struck a passenger vehicle. The collision led to the serious injury of a 40-year-old man, who was subsequently hospitalized for several weeks due to fractures and internal injuries.
According to police reports, the truck driver lost control due to slick road conditions after heavy rain and failed to maintain proper control of the vehicle.
The Legal Case
What made this case unique was the discovery that the truck’s cargo—an industrial metal shipment—was not properly secured. In addition, the driver had failed to slow down despite wet conditions.
Investigators found that both the trucking company and the driver had failed to ensure that the truck adhered to proper loading guidelines, which could have prevented the cargo from shifting.
The injured driver filed a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver and the trucking company, citing negligent cargo loading and failure to adjust to weather conditions. The case resulted in a substantial settlement for the injured victim, who was able to recover compensation for his medical costs, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering.
2014 I-12 Crash in Livingston Parish
In 2014, a crash occurred on I-12 in Livingston Parish, Louisiana, when a semi-truck crashed into a passenger vehicle on a foggy morning. The driver of the truck, who was traveling at high speed, did not see the passenger vehicle in front of him due to low visibility. The crash led to the death of the 28-year-old driver of the passenger vehicle.
The Legal Case
Investigators later found that the truck driver was distracted by his mobile phone at the time of the accident. Text messages from the driver’s phone records showed that he had been texting shortly before the crash. In addition, it was revealed that the truck was overdue for routine maintenance, including an oil change and tire checks.
The victim’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against both the truck driver and the trucking company for negligence. The case concluded with a multi-million-dollar settlement, as the trucking company failed to adequately monitor its drivers’ use of mobile phones and ensure proper vehicle maintenance.
Legal Support for I-12 Truck Accident Victims
Accidents involving semi-trucks on I-12 can be devastating, and victims often face a long road to recovery. Whether it’s due to driver negligence, inadequate maintenance, or improperly loaded cargo, these accidents can result in severe injuries and loss of life.
Personal injury lawyers specializing in truck accidents play a vital role in helping victims and their families navigate the legal complexities of these cases. By thoroughly investigating the crash, identifying responsible parties, and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve, these lawyers provide invaluable support during a difficult time.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident on I-12, it is essential to reach out to an experienced New Orleans personal injury lawyer from Cueria Law Injury Lawyers to explore your legal options and protect your rights.