Local news are reporting a chain-reaction accident involving a total of 15 vehicles including two commercial vehicles on Interstate 90 in Bellevue Washington. Authorities indicate the wreck occurred around 8 a.m Wednesday July 20 when a rig owned by AP Transport struck the back of a logging semi-truck causing a multi-car pileup. Included in this wreck was a 9-year-old who suffered critical injuries to her pelvis and spine. She was taken to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle where her current condition is unknown.
Police reports indicate the rig jackknifed after trying to slow down in traffic which caused the collision with the logging truck.
Washington records indicate AP Transport has a history of safety violations with 42% of their line failing random inspections. The victims names have been withheld pending investigation.
Approximate Site of the Accident
Commentary
I find the state records of failed inspections highly suspect in this report. AP Transport clearly has a history of casualness involving safety. Something as simple as servicing their line of trucks could have prevented this accident. But not just this accident. When a company displays this type of failure to address safety you can bet there will be other accidents. While an independent investigation is needed to firmly diagnose liability in this incident the victims could have personal injury claims against both the driver and the trucking company. These claims are needed to hold irresponsible companies accountable to their actions.
Texas Personal Injury Attorney Michael Grossman
