New Hampshire Driver Almost Dies After Metal Chunk Smashes Through Windshield
One of the most underappreciated hazards of semi-trucks is loose cargo. Even if a small piece of metal flies off the back of a semi-truck, it can cause catastrophic damage if it hits a vehicle. This is especially true on New Hampshire highways, where vehicles travel at high speeds. A recent incident of this nature almost claimed the life of a driver on I-93 – and it is a stunning example of negligence in the trucking industry. If you were injured by a semi-truck in New Hampshire, you may be able to pursue compensation alongside a lawyer.
Piece of Metal Impales Driver’s Windshield in Meredith
In September of 2024, ABC News reported that a driver in Meredith had narrowly escaped death after a piece of metal went through his windshield. Authorities quickly determined that the piece of metal had fallen off the back of a semi-truck driving ahead of the motorist. The resulting impact occurred at an extremely high velocity – and it became lodged in the shatter-resistant windshield.
If the metal chunk had penetrated much further, the driver could have been impaled. After analyzing the object, traffic authorities determined that it was a “staging pin” – a component used in scaffolding and lighting.
The motorist used this opportunity to issue a stark warning to truck drivers, stating:
“Secure your loads on your trailers. Make sure any loose equipment is secure. Things happen, and they happen quick. The guy, I’m sure, didn’t mean for it to happen. But, it happens.”
Loose Cargo Is a Clear Example of Trucking Negligence
In truth, this motorist was being extremely generous to the trucker and the trucking company involved. Loose cargo is simply unacceptable – and it is a clear example of negligence. One of the most basic tasks of any trucking company is to secure its cargo safely and securely. If a piece of metal flies off the back of a semi-truck and impacts another vehicle, the trucking company has clearly failed in its duty of care.
If the victim had been killed by this impact, his family may have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the trucking company and the trucker. Proving negligence in this scenario would be relatively straightforward, as the metal chunk clearly came from the semi-truck. With causation established, the family would have had the opportunity to pursue compensation for funeral expenses, hospital fees, emotional distress, lost future earnings, and other damages.
Can a New Hampshire Truck Accident Lawyer Help Me Seek Compensation?
A Manchester car accident lawyer at Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira PLLC may be able to help you seek compensation after a semi-truck accident. Whether you were struck by a semi-truck or a loose piece of cargo, you have every right to pursue legal action. A lawsuit or injury claim can help you cover your medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and other damages. For more information, book a consultation with The Law Office of Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira, PLLC.
Sources:
nhtsa.gov/drive-safe-secure-your-load#:~:text=Secure%20Your%20Load%20%E2%80%93%20It’s%20the,dangerous%20obstacles%20on%20the%20road.
abc7.com/post/driver-lucky-alive-after-metal-pin-crashes-windshield-interstate-93-meredith-new-hampshire-video/15282009/
