Interstate I-95 is the main north-south land-based transportation interstate on the east coast of the United States. This interstate is a critical transportation connector for the majority of the east coast population, millions travel this interstate daily. I-95 begins at the north-east corner of the US at Houlton Maine and travels south through 15 different states and ends in Miami. This interstate offers many great tourism opportunities, as i-95 travels through or in close proximity to some of America’s greatest cities, attractions, scenic spots, historic sites, and beaches.
Even though this interstate may provide you with beautiful landmarks and scenic spots it also has a down side to it. I-95 is known as one of the deadliest interstate in the United States. According to the South Carolina department of public safety, in 2014, there were 153 crashes on I-95 in South Carolina killing168 people. In 2015, there were 161 fatal crashes and 182 killed. Speed is a huge factor while driving on I-95. Many drivers believe that it is okay to drive 60 mph on the left lane instead on being in the right lane. Drivers need to be aware that not only small compact vehicles commute on that interstate but also commercial trucks. Trucks are bigger, heavier, and longer than other vehicles on the road, making it difficult for truck drivers to switch lanes, come to a stop, or see other vehicles.
For example, Saturday, March 21, 2015, a five-vehicle collision occurred on I-95 northbound at Exit 170 in Florence County killing five people including a 7 month old baby. In addition to the five victims, there were seven other people involved in the crash. The others declined transportation to area hospitals. Windy Hill firefighters responded to the crash and arrived to find two vehicles on fire, one on the interstate and one pinned under a commercial truck. There were two victims in each of the burning vehicles and one victim was ejected from the vehicle in the crash. Florence County Coroner Keith von Lutcken, identified the victims as Barry Himes, and Jacqueline Ann McCann, from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and, Jeremiah Joseph Cross, Crystal Cross, and Grayson Cross, from Ontario. I-95 was closed for almost 12 hours due to the investigation and severity of this accident.
Driving a truck is much different than driving a car and much more dangerous. Truck drivers need to be extremely cautious and aware while driving. Last year, famous actor Tracy Morgan, filed a lawsuit against Wal-mart for negligence, claiming that the driver was sleep deprived due to his long schedule as a truck driver. According to the preliminary investigation the National Transportation Safety Board said Roper was driving 65 mph in the minute before he slammed into Morgan’s van. The speed limit on that stretch of the highway is 55 mph but had been lowered to 45 mph that night because of construction. Due to the negligence of the driver the life of comedian James McNair was lost and Morgan suffered traumatic brain injuries. He continues trying to recover from this accident but he will never be the same person as he was before.
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident, contact a Myrtle Beach injury lawyer at The Mace Firm in Myrtle Beach. Our Auto accident attorneys help victims and their families recover compensation for their injuries and compensation for pain and suffering. It is important to contact an experienced Myrtle Beach accident attorney to ensure that your rights are protected. Our personal injury attorneys in Myrtle Beach have represented families in this type of situations and have extensive experience in personal injury cases. Call today to schedule your free consultation with one of our personal injury lawyers.
