Scotland Co., NC (April 26, 2024) – One person has died as a result of a fatal accident that occurred on Thursday in Scotland County. Authorities were called to the scene at around 7:30 a.m. on April 25.
According to official reports, a 2002 Kenworth dump truck was hauling gravel and traveling eastbound on US Highway 74. The vehicle was positioned behind an escort vehicle, which was following a 2020 Peterbilt tractor trailer, which was hauling a boat. The escort vehicle and the tractor-trailer began to slow down near the bridge under Highland Road. For unknown reasons, the dump truck crashed into the escort vehicle. The impact of the crash sent the escort vehicle into the tractor-trailer.
The driver of the dump truck, 64-year-old Billy Oxendine, was airlifted from the scene of the crash and flown to an area hospital. He is currently facing charges for misdemeanor death by vehicle. The driver of the escort vehicle, who has not been publicly identified, was fatally injured. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigations into the crash are ongoing.
We hope Billy Oxendine recovers quickly.
We offer our sympathies to the family of the victim killed in this crash.
Fatal Truck Accidents in North Carolina
Statistics for 2022 show that a total of 140 fatal truck accidents took place in North Carolina. Every year, innocent people continue to lose their lives as a result of these motor vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, many of these accidents take place due to negligent and careless drivers. In the aftermath of a fatal truck accident, determining who can be held liable is a complex process that often involves multiple parties. Liability is not limited to just the truck driver. It can extend to several individuals and entities, each playing a role in the circumstances that led to the accident. This can include:
- Truck Drivers: If the accident was caused by negligent driving practices, such as speeding, driving under the influence, or fatigue, the truck driver could be held liable.
- Trucking Companies: The company owning the truck can be held responsible if they failed to enforce proper safety protocols, conducted inadequate maintenance, or pushed drivers beyond legal working hours.
- Truck Manufacturers: If a defect in the truck or any of its components contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or the faulty part could be held accountable.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or secured cargo that leads to an accident can result in liability for those responsible for loading the truck.
Each of these parties has a duty to ensure the safety of the truck, its operation, and its impact on public roads. When they fail to meet these obligations, they can be held accountable under the law.
Losing a loved one in a fatal North Carolina truck accident is a devastating experience that no family should have to endure alone. If your family has suffered this kind of loss, a North Carolina wrongful death lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of seeking justice for your loved one.
Our team at Ted Greve & Associates can meet with you for a free consultation. Reach out to our dedicated legal team today by calling (800) 693-7833 to protect your rights.
