Many of our goods in this country are transported by semi-trucks. Unfortunately, these trucks are occasionally involved in serious truck accidents. When thinking of possible casualties of these crashes, what often comes to mind are the people in vehicles that might be hit by these large trucks. Sometimes, there can be other potential victims. A recent truck accident in Michigan highlighted this potential problem when it was discovered that it may have released toxic fumes as a result of the crash.
The accident occurred when a semi-truck crashed through a guard rail and landed on a road below. The impact caused an explosion. The truck had been hauling crude oil and caught on fire, which may have caused toxic fumes to enter the surrounding area's air. Emergency crews responded to the scene as quickly as possible, and citizens in the nearby area were evacuated. The highway where the accident happened had to be closed for a period of time for clean up and investigation, and some lanes remained closed for quite some time.
The driver of the semi-truck was uninjured. It is not known whether any charges will be made in relation to this crash, and authorities have not disclosed a cause for the accident at this time. If there were any lasting effects on people in the area who potentially inhaled the toxic fumes, it may not be known for some time.
If the driver of the truck is determined to have caused this accident, he or she may face a civil claim if anyone was injured by the crash. Health complications that could arise from truck accidents like this one are a serious concern. A successful civil claim may result in monetary restitution that could assist an injured party with medical bills, lost wages and other related expenses. This accident in Michigan could have been serious for many people, and time will tell if anyone was hurt.
Source: wnem.com, Westbound I-69 Reopens after semi crash and explosion, Tom Plahutnik, Jan. 2, 2014
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