Last week, a devastating commercial truck accident occurred in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. Six high school students are now dead after their small car crashed into the truck while making a left turn. The students were on their lunch break at Tishomingo High School.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the National Traffic Safety Board are investigating the crash. A report shows that the accident took place at the intersection of U.S. 377 and State Highways 22 and 99. The Chevrolet Spark with the six girls inside came to a rolling stop.

Witnesses say that the driver of the car tried to make a left turn onto U.S. 377. The front end of the car crashed into the Peterbilt tractor trailer, dragging it off the road. A full investigation of the crash may take up to two years to complete, however.

Commercial Truck Accidents

Every 15 seconds, someone is killed or injured in a commercial truck accident. Most deaths occur in the opposite vehicle, not the semi-truck itself. The weight of these vehicles can lead to severe damage, as they are often 20-30 times larger than a normal car.

Defective brakes and equipment, driver fatigue, and unsafe operation of the vehicle are all major reasons for fatal accidents. Tractor-trailers require much farther distance to come to a complete stop. Unsafe road conditions can make it even more difficult for the driver.

Fortunately, federal law requires that trucks carry at least $750,000 in insurance coverage. If you or a loved one are involved in a commercial truck accident, it’s important to first seek medical attention right away. Next, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to investigate the accident.

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help you receive the compensation you deserve. Please call us today at 800-215-7211 or fill out our form here for assistance. For more information on commercial truck accidents, click here.