1 Killed, 2 Injured in Head-On Crash in Unicoi

When driving, it is important to stay in your lane. Crossing over the double yellow line or veering into the adjacent lane is not only illegal but dangerous and even deadly, as seen in a recent crash in Tennessee.

A two-vehicle crash killed one person and injured two others. The fatal accident occurred on the evening of May 28 in Unicoi.

According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the driver of a Ford F-150, an 80-year-old man, was heading north on Unicoi Drive near Sugar Hollow Road. At the same time, the driver of a Chevrolet S-10 was traveling south. The F-150 crossed over the double yellow line for unknown reasons, causing both vehicles to collide head on.

The impact caused the F-150 to rotate counterclockwise. Both vehicles came to rest in the roadway facing different directions. The passenger in the S-10, an 84-year-old woman, died at the accident scene.

Both drivers were seriously injured and taken to Johnson City Medical Center for medical treatment. The driver of the F-150 could face criminal charges pending the outcome of the investigation.

Accidents Caused by Crossing the Center Line

Center-line crossing accidents occur when a vehicle drifts, swerves, or travels across the dividing line separating opposing lanes of traffic. Because these crashes often involve vehicles traveling in opposite directions, they frequently result in severe injuries and fatalities.

A driver may cross the center line for many reasons, including:

• Distracted driving, such as texting or using a mobile device
• Drowsy or fatigued driving
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Speeding on curves or winding roads
• Aggressive driving and unsafe passing maneuvers
• Medical emergencies
• Poor weather conditions, including rain, snow, or fog
• Mechanical failures, such as tire blowouts or steering problems
• Inattention or lane departure due to driver error

The driver who crossed the center line is often presumed to be at fault. However, a thorough investigation may reveal other contributing factors.

Potentially liable parties may include the following:

• A distracted or impaired driver
• A commercial trucking company
• A vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the crash
• A government agency responsible for unsafe roadway design or maintenance
• A third-party driver whose actions forced another vehicle across the center line

Evidence commonly used to establish fault includes police reports, witness statements, dashcam footage, surveillance video, vehicle black box data, cell phone records, and accident reconstruction analysis.

Contact Us Today

Drivers need to keep their vehicles in the proper lanes. Even the smallest distraction or poor maneuver can cause a vehicle to cross the center line, which can lead to a fatal crash.

Tennessee recognizes claims for those seriously injured in accidents as well as for the wrongful death of a family member killed in a crash. Get the help you need from a Mt. Juliet car accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (615) 622-6060.

Source:

wcyb.com/news/local/84-year-old-woman-killed-in-unicoi-crash-charges-pending-thp-says