Tractor trailers aren’t dangerous only because of their weight. The trailer rides higher than many other vehicles. If you hit the end of the trailer just right, your car could wedge itself under the trailer. This raises the chance of a fatality significantly.
Atlanta police and CBS 46 reported on just such a case that happened early this morning. Around 2 am on I-285 South, just before the I-20 ramp, a car crashed into the back of a tractor-trailer. The driver of the car was killed instantly. The truck driver was uninjured and stopped to give a report to the police.
Police stated to the media that they found a can of alcohol in the car driver’s vehicle. They are unsure if the man was speeding at the time of the crash. It’s likely that the coroner’s office will run a toxicology test to see if this was a DUI-related crash.
Even a sober driver can crash into the back of a trailer if it stops or slows suddenly on the interstate. It is best to give them a wide following distance. Tractor trailers take longer to slow despite air brakes thanks to their weight.
Our condolences go out to the family of the slain man. If you’ve been in an injury accident and live in Atlanta, please contact John Foy & Associates.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
