A man from Onalaska was killed in a two-vehicle auto accident on one late afternoon. According to the police, the man was driving on Interstate 90 and slowed his vehicle as he neared an exit. At that point, a truck hit the back of the victim’s car. The collision caused the vehicle to swerve out of control and land on its side. The victim was taken to the hospital but did not survive his injuries.

Both drivers were wearing seat belts. The truck driver, also from Onalaska, sustained some injuries during the accident. He was taken to a Mayo Clinic branch in La Crosse, treated and was released later that evening. The police have stated that alcohol was involved.

Although they did not directly indicate that it was the driver of the truck who was intoxicated, they stated that charges may be filed pending further investigation. If it is proven that the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the victim’s family may have the option of filing a lawsuit against that driver for negligence and wrongful death.

This incident illustrates that an accident can happen at any time and through no fault of the victim. All too often, alcohol or drugs are involved, despite the extensive knowledge that using either while driving is dangerous. A victim’s family may want to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney because time is of the essence in the preservation of evidence and location of potential witnesses. A successful wrongful death claim can help families recover monetary compensation, including funeral costs, and to obtain damages for pain and suffering.

Source: LaCrosse Tribune, “Onalaska man killed in I-90 crash identified, Tribune Staff,” Tribune Staff, Sept. 15, 2012