Semi truck making U-turn hits car, kills 3

Many intersections have a “no U-turns” sign posted. That is because trying to make a U-turn there could cause a dangerous car accident, as readers already know. It appears that a tractor-trailer driver making an illegal U-turn is responsible for a collision that killed the wife of a North Carolina native and two of their children earlier in August.

The truck accident took place in another state. Police believe that the truck driver was lost as he was travelling south. He decided to turn around, but when he reached an intersection, he attempted a U-turn instead of going around the block or another, safer maneuver.

As the truck turned, it came into the path of an SUV carrying a couple and three children. The smaller vehicle crashed into truck, becoming almost completely wedged underneath.

Even though the family was all wearing seat belts, all five of them were seriously injured. The wife, 25, was killed, as were her 9-year-old and infant sons. The husband survived, as did his 8-year-old stepdaughter, though both had to be hospitalized for their injuries.

The husband grew up in North Carolina before moving away. He is described as an author, gospel musician and life coach. The family was on its way to a concert marking the release of his new album.

The truck driver could face criminal charges in connection with this terrible accident. He and his employer could also be found liable for the family’s financial damages, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

Source: The Times of Trenton, “‘Lost’ truck driver’s illegal U-turn on Route 1 caused crash that killed woman, 2 kids, prosecutor says,” Jon Offredo, Aug. 4, 2013