PROTECTING THE LEGAL INTERESTS OF INJURED HAWAII RESIDENTS AND VISITORS SINCE 1973

Hawaii truck accidents can quickly turn fatal

On Behalf of | Apr 3, 2015 | Truck Accidents |

In a recent Hawaii tragedy, power lines had to be cut in order for rescue workers to gain access to a trapped victim following an accident. Truck accidents, such as the one in this case, sometimes lead to serious injuries or deaths. Although several who were involved miraculously escaped injury, one man was killed in the crash.

A witness stated that he heard an echoing sound just before the tragedy occurred. He thought that perhaps a tree had fallen, but, upon hearing sirens, he realized it was not likely the case. According to reports, the tragic accident was caused when a 3,500 gallon tank of asphalt paint broke away from the truck that was hauling it.

The tank veered off the road, crashing into a utility pole, as well as a vehicle full of occupants. The family inside the car was not injured; however, after the tank struck their vehicle, it continued sliding and crashed into a pickup truck. The 47-year-old driver of the truck did not survive. Rescue workers were unable to reach him due to power lines in the vicinity, which were ultimately cut so that access could be gained.

Hawaii law allows the immediate family members of victims killed in truck accidents caused by the fault of a third party to file wrongful death claims for the losses of their loved ones. Successfully presenting such claims can lead to compensation being awarded to family members. Wrongful death compensation can help alleviate the financial burdens that so often accompany truck accidents. 

Source: hawaiinewsnow.com, “Victim in fatal Kamehameha Highway crash identified“, Lynn Kawano, March 29, 2015

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