Posted in Car Accident,Tennessee Accident Law on July 2, 2016
Roadside Trailer Repair Accident Results in 2 People Suffering Serious Injuries
A trailer broke down on the side of the road in Nashville last month, and two people who were working to repair it were seriously injured when they were struck by a vehicle.
According to a report by WKRN.com, the accident occurred on Donelson Pike at Shacklett Drive at around 7 p.m. Officers with Metro Nashville Police say that the driver who struck the two victims initially fled the scene, but was later apprehended by police around one mile away from where the incident occurred.
The driver was injured during the accident and was transported to Metro General Hospital to receive treatment, while the two victims who were working on the trailer were transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Their conditions are unknown at this time, but their injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
Police are still investigating the accident at this time, and it’s unclear if drugs or alcohol played a role.
How Can You Stay Safe if You Experience a Roadside Emergency?
Whether it’s due to a flat tire, a transmission problem, or an engine failure, roadside emergencies are stressful but common situations for most drivers. While a situation like this may initially seem like only a minor inconvenience, it can put you and your passengers at serious risk if you aren’t prepared to safely deal with it.
To stay safe if you’re ever stranded on the side of the road due to a vehicle malfunction or emergency, do your best to follow these tips:
If your vehicle still starts and is capable of moving a small distance, try to move it out of the roadway and onto the shoulder of the road and out of the path of oncoming traffic. Not only will this make you less likely to be struck by another vehicle, but you’ll also clear a path for emergency responders or repair services to reach your location. After you’ve reached a safe location, turn on your flashing lights to indicate that your vehicle is disabled.
For many drivers, their first instinct upon experiencing a flat tire or engine problem is to get out and see if they can fix the issue themselves. However, attempting to repair car problems on the side of the road can be extremely dangerous. If another vehicle crashes into your car while you’re replacing a flat tire or standing in front of the engine, you could suffer life-threatening injuries. Instead of getting out, call a tow truck company, roadside emergency helpline, or your local police department. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.
In most cases, you can use your phone to get help and repair services or a tow truck to your location in a matter of minutes. However, in some cases, drivers are out of cell phone range and in environments that can quickly become dangerous. Keep an emergency bag inside your car with things like flags, flares, and reflective triangles. Other important items to have include jumper cables, gloves, blankets, a first aid kit, bottled water, and a mobile cell phone charger.
Regardless of the type of roadside emergency you experience, it’s important to remember that your safety and the safety of your loved ones always comes first—even if it means a delay in your travel plans. It’s better to stay safe inside your vehicle and wait for help to arrive than to attempt a repair and put yourself in harm’s way.
Moving your vehicle away from traffic and turning on your flashing lights can go a long way toward making you safer after a roadside emergency, but accidents still occur in these situations, especially when other drivers are negligent or careless. If you or someone you love was injured in a roadside accident, the Nashville auto accident attorneys at Matt Hardin Law want to speak with you. To find out how we can assist your family during this time, dial (615) 200-1111 or complete a free online consultation form.
