Catoosa, OK (August 7, 2024) – Two people were killed in a semi-truck accident near Catoosa on Wednesday, August 7. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported that a UPS semi that was towing three trailers had stalled in the middle lane of Interstate 44 near 177th Avenue. Shortly after, a second semi struck it from behind, veered off the road, and caught fire. The driver and passenger inside the second semi-truck lost their lives in the accident. All lanes of I-44 were blocked for approximately 8 hours while emergency responders worked at the scene. Police in Catoosa continue to investigate.
We want to offer our sincere condolences to the families of the deceased victims.
Oklahoma Truck Accidents
Commercial vehicle accidents are a major concern nationwide, with approximately 500,000 occurring annually. Just last year, there were 523,796 crashes involving heavy trucks, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. These collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the significant size and weight disparity between semi trucks and passenger cars.
Tragically, many of these accidents are caused by negligent truck drivers. Factors such as fatigue, distraction, and even driving under the influence contribute to the risks associated with semi-truck operations. These drivers often face demanding schedules imposed by their employers, leading to unsafe practices on the road. Some drivers engage in unsafe behaviors such as working for extremely long hours, using drugs or alcohol while operating their rigs, and more. Over half of semi-truck accidents are caused by negligent truck drivers. When you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash that you believe may have been caused by the actions of a negligent driver, working alongside a personal injury lawyer may be in your best interest. You may be eligible for full and fair financial compensation that can help you get your life back on track after your wreck.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident, the last thing you should worry about is financial strain while recovering. Being hurt in a crash is no joke, and seeking legal assistance can help alleviate financial burdens during this difficult time. The only thing worse than being hurt in a wreck is losing a loved one. If you have recently lost someone you love in a fatal accident, a wrongful death attorney can help you file a wrongful death claim for financial compensation so you can get help paying for funeral costs and more.
If you or someone you love have experienced a serious crash, contacting a personal injury attorney in Catoosa such as those at Milly Daniels Law in Meridian, can provide the support you need. Reach out to our firm at 405-768-2570 to explore how they can assist you during this challenging period.