Randal Wilson, of Milledgeville, Died After Two Tractor Trailer Trucks Collided Near U.S. Highway 441 and Georgia Route 112 In Wilkinson County
IRWINTON, GEORGIA (May 28, 2024) – A truck driver identified as Randal Wilson has tragically died in an Irwinton semi-truck accident along U.S. Highway 441 and Georgia Route 112.
Wilkinson County officials are saying that the collision took place around 3:50 p.m. on Tuesday. Randal Wilson was operating a commercial truck northbound on U.S. Highway 441.
The driver of a blue 2020 Freightliner was traveling westbound on Georgia Route 112 and failed to stop at an intersection before hitting the right side of the northbound truck.
The force of the impact caused the northbound truck to sustain major damage and burst into fire. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim.
EMS located Randal Wilson, who was able to extricate himself from his vehicle. But he sustained critical injuries in the crash and was beyond medical aid.
Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Irwinton Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-trucks can be very dangerous and are involved in many fatal collisions each year. Many of the victims are either truck drivers or people who work in the transportation industry. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 1,620 fatalities in the transportation industry in 2022. There are a number of measures that truck companies can take in order to help prevent collisions.
- Trucks can be equipped with safety features such as forward collision avoidance systems.
- Trucks should always have commercial GPS software.
- Trucks should be regularly inspected and well maintained.
All truck drivers are required to get a commercial license. They are expected to be intimately familiar with how their vehicle operates and to drive with the utmost caution at all times. Many collisions are due to speeding. Pursuant to Georgia Vehicle Code 40-6-180, no person shall drive a motor vehicle at a speed greater than what would be reasonable given the prevailing conditions and hazards on the roadway. If a truck driver fails to yield the right of way and collides with another vehicle, this could form the basis of a negligence claim.
Liability for a truck collision could extend beyond any driver. If a truck driver failed to yield and caused a crash, their employer could be held at fault. Generally speaking, companies are liable for the wrongful actions of their employees. However, many truck companies will attempt to evade liability for crashes by hiring their drivers as “independent contractors.” It is important that certain steps are taken after any truck accident.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- Photos of the accident should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- The event data recorder for the truck involved should be reviewed.
Truck accidents can be extremely complex events. The factors that contribute to any truck accident may take place hours, days, or even weeks prior to the collision. It is important that a thorough investigation be conducted to help determine all potentially liable parties. In far too many instances, truck drivers are asked to work long and difficult hours and may become dangerously fatigued. In fact, nearly one in ten truck drivers involved in collisions reported feeling under pressure from their carrier.
Investigating Wilkinson County Semi-Truck Accidents
We at Butler Kahn extend our deepest condolences to the family of Randal Wilson. Any person who may have more information should reach out to the police. This was a tragedy that should never have taken place. So many questions about what happened remain unanswered. It is our sincere hope that there will be accountability for all responsible parties once a full and thorough investigation has been conducted.
Do you need more information about a Wilkinson County semi-truck accident? Our team of roadway safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free investigation into any incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 678-940-1444.
