A semitruck rear-ended a charter bus filled with high school students on an Ohio highway, leaving six dead and 18 injured on November 14.

A total of five vehicles were involved in the crash, including a charter bus carrying students and chaperones from the Tuscarawas Valley Local School District located in eastern Ohio. 

Three passengers of the bus were pronounced dead at the scene, they were identified as John W. Mosely, 18, Jefferey D. Worrell, 18, and Katelyn N. Owens, 15. 

The bus driver and a total of 15 students were taken to nearby area hospitals and other students were taken to a reunification site.

Three people in one of the passenger vehicles that was involved in the crash were also pronounced dead at the scene. The individuals were identified as Dave Kennat, 56, Kristy Gaynor, 39, and Shannon Wigfield, 45.

All of the vehicles involved in the crash were headed westbound on I-70 in Licking County, about 26 miles east of Columbus at 9 AM. A chain-reaction crash happened causing at least three vehicles to subsequently catch fire. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. 

The charter bus was carrying students and chaperones to an Ohio School Boards Association conference in Columbus. The conference was canceled after organizers learned of the crash. 

In a report by the Star Advertiser, it is said that 30 units of blood were sent to a hospital in the Mount Carmel Health System by the Red Cross to help victims. 

“This is a terrible incident that no parent or student should ever have to go through,” said Britt Strottman, licensed Ohio attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “So many lives were lost far too soon, and many others were injured, requiring critical medical attention. My thoughts are with the families of the victims involved in this crash.”

Singleton Schreiber Ohio personal injury and wrongful death attorneys can be reached at 866-331-9303 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal Ohio Bus Crashes

Ohio has recently been marred by a series of tragic bus accidents that have claimed lives and left communities in mourning. The devastating consequences of these incidents underscore the critical need for enhanced safety measures to protect the lives of passengers and prevent future tragedies.

In recent months, Ohio has witnessed a string of fatal bus crashes that have sent shockwaves through the state. These incidents, occurring on both highways and local roads, have involved various types of buses, including school buses, charter buses, and public transportation vehicles. The causes of these crashes are diverse, ranging from driver error and mechanical failures to adverse weather conditions and other external factors.

Bus transportation plays a vital role in Ohio’s communities, shuttling students to and from schools, connecting people to their workplaces, and facilitating travel for various events. However, these recent crashes emphasize the vulnerability of passengers and the need for comprehensive safety measures to be in place.

Authorities are actively investigating the causes of these fatal bus crashes to determine whether they were the result of human error, mechanical failures, or a combination of factors. Understanding the root causes is essential for implementing targeted safety improvements and preventing similar incidents in the future.

One crucial aspect of bus safety is the training and qualification of drivers. Ensuring that bus drivers undergo thorough training programs that cover defensive driving, handling adverse weather conditions, and responding to emergencies is paramount. Additionally, ongoing education and periodic evaluations can help maintain and enhance driver skills over time.

Advancements in technology offer promising avenues for improving bus safety. The integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), collision avoidance technology, and real-time monitoring systems can provide an extra layer of protection for passengers and help prevent accidents caused by human error.

Mechanical failures have been identified as contributing factors in some of the recent bus crashes. Regular and rigorous maintenance schedules for buses, conducted by qualified technicians, are crucial for identifying and addressing potential issues before they lead to accidents.

Engaging the community in promoting bus safety is essential. Campaigns to educate passengers about proper behavior on buses, the importance of seatbelt usage, and how to evacuate in case of an emergency can contribute to a safer transportation environment.

The recent increase of fatal bus crashes in Ohio serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in public transportation. Addressing the root causes through enhanced driver training, technological solutions, regular vehicle maintenance, and community involvement is imperative. By working collaboratively, state authorities, transportation agencies, and the public can contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone who relies on bus transportation in Ohio.

“The families grieving the loss of their children and loved ones should not have to face the details of this crash alone. They should reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who will assist in the investigation and any complex matters that may arise,” added Ms. Strottman. “Some families are now faced with serious out-of-pocket burial or medical expenses as a result of this fatal collision.”

Singleton Schreiber Ohio personal injury and wrongful death attorneys can be reached at 866-331-9303 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

One person was killed in a fatal semi trailer crash near Moriarty off Interstate 40 in New Mexico.

According to the Torrance County Sheriff’s Office, a semitrailer driver was traveling on Interstate 40 when they veered off the road and hit a metal building. Two men were inside that building at the time of the crash and one was found dead after the incident. 

The semi-trailer driver and another person inside the building were taken to a nearby hospital. Torance County police share that their conditions are unknown. 

The two men inside the metal building are owners of the Ribs Hickory Pit BBW, located on Highway 14 in Cedar Crest, according to a report by KOAT 7. The identities of the three men involved have not yet been disclosed. 

“This crash is truly tragic as the men inside the building had no time to prepare for the sheer impact of the semi-trailer,” said Brian Colón, leading truck accident attorney and Managing Partner of Singleton Schreiber’s New Mexico offices. “A man’s life was taken far too soon as a direct result of the crash and another innocent man had to be hospitalized. My hope is that this incident is thoroughly investigated and that the men, and their families, receive the justice rightfully owed to them.”

If you or someone you love has been involved in a truck accident, contact the Torrance County attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling (505) 587-3473 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal Torrance County Semi Trailer Crashes

Torrance County, like many regions across the United States, has unfortunately experienced its share of tragic accidents involving semi trailers. These collisions are often catastrophic due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, resulting in devastating consequences for those involved. In recent times, the rise in fatal crashes involving semi trailers has raised significant concerns and prompted a closer examination of the factors contributing to these incidents.

Semi Trailer accidents are among the most severe on roadways due to the mass discrepancy between these large trucks and other vehicles. When a collision occurs, the force of impact is often overwhelming, leading to devastating consequences such as severe injuries, loss of life, and extensive property damage.

Torrance County, situated in New Mexico, is a region frequented by commercial trucks due to its position along major transportation routes. The intersection of these routes increases the probability of accidents involving semi trailers. These incidents not only impact the lives of those directly involved but also have a ripple effect on the community and the region’s infrastructure.

Factors Contributing to Semitrailer Accidents

Driver Fatigue and Error

Driver fatigue remains a significant factor in semitrailer accidents. Long hours on the road can lead to drowsiness, impairing a driver’s ability to react swiftly to changing traffic conditions. Federal regulations govern the number of hours a driver can operate a commercial vehicle without rest, yet compliance isn’t always guaranteed. Human error, including distracted driving and impaired judgment, also contributes to these accidents.

Mechanical Failures and Maintenance Issues

The mechanical condition of a semitrailer is pivotal in ensuring safe operation. Equipment failure, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can result in catastrophic accidents. Poor maintenance and inadequate inspections of these large vehicles can significantly increase the risk of these failures.

Adverse Weather Conditions

New Mexico’s varying weather conditions, from high winds to sudden dust storms, can reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions. Semitrailers, due to their size and weight, can be particularly challenging to maneuver in adverse weather, potentially leading to accidents.

Addressing the issue of fatal semitrailer crashes requires a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders:

• Regulations and Enforcement: Stricter enforcement of existing regulations and potentially implementing new safety measures can help reduce the occurrence of these accidents. This includes ensuring compliance with driving hour limits and stringent maintenance checks for commercial vehicles.
• Driver Education and Training: Improved training and awareness programs can help drivers recognize the signs of fatigue and better understand the risks associated with distracted driving. Education regarding safe driving practices in diverse weather conditions is also crucial.
• Technological Advancements: Implementing advanced safety technologies in semitrailers, such as automatic braking systems and collision avoidance systems, could potentially mitigate the severity of accidents.

Fatal semitrailer crashes in Torrance County and beyond demand immediate attention and concerted efforts to prevent future tragedies. It’s imperative to address the multifaceted nature of these accidents by enhancing regulations, improving driver education, and leveraging technological advancements to ensure safer roadways for all. The collective efforts of government agencies, law enforcement, trucking companies, and drivers themselves are crucial in curbing the frequency and severity of these devastating incidents.

Through a comprehensive approach that encompasses regulation, education, and technology, it is possible to make significant strides in minimizing fatal semitrailer crashes in Torrance County and across the nation. Only then can we strive towards safer roads for everyone.

“Anyone affected by this terrible crash should reach out to a knowledgeable attorney who understands the complexities truck accidents consist of,” added Mr. Colón. “The family of the man who lost his life deserve justice and peace following his untimely death.”

If you or someone you love has been involved in a truck accident, contact the Torrance County attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling (505) 587-3473 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.