A 65-year-old Wisconsin man is awaiting trial where he will face charges of second-degree reckless homicide and negligent homicide. The man is accused of causing the death of a 37-year-old woman while driving on a wet road.

After a police investigation, authorities have stated that the 65-year-old man was driving behind a truck pulling a trailer on a wet road. While stuck behind the truck, the man then attempted to pass it; he momentarily lost control of the vehicle and then collided head-on with an oncoming car driven by the 37-year-old woman, killing her in the accident.

The 65-year-old man allegedly lost control of his car on the wet road because he was talking on a cellphone while driving. Wisconsin has chosen not to enact an outright ban on cellphone use while driving as some other states have. However, Wisconsin drivers are not allowed to read and write text messages while driving. Police also say the man was likely going between 73 mph and 94 mph in an area that has a 55 mph speed limit.

Unfortunately, the consequences of distracted and negligent driving are felt by not just the driver but also the loved ones left behind after fatal accidents like the one discussed here. The death of a loved one is difficult, especially when caused by a negligent driver. Difficult issues like how to legally deal with such a tragedy can be resolved with the help of experienced legal professionals. Filing a wrongful death claim may be appropriate.

Source: Rivertowns.net, “Pierce Co. man charged with causing accident while talking on cellphone,” Oct. 11, 2012