DAKOTA COUNTY, Minn. — A 62-year-old man tragically died Feb. 21 after he was injured during a jackknife collision in Bancroft Township.
State troopers identified the victim as Bradley Dean Oachs of Rosemont.
Authorities said Oachs was driving a Kenworth semi southbound on Interstate 35 when his vehicle collided with the trailer of a southbound Freightliner that jackknifed.
Oachs was transported to the Albert Lea Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The two occupants of the Freightliner were reportedly uninjured.
At the time of the crash, officials said roadways were snowy and icy.
Authorities are still working to determine the precise cause of the crash. No additional information was immediately available.
Commentary on the fatal semi-accident that claimed the life of Bradley Dean Oachs
I am deeply saddened to learn of Mr. Oachs untimely passing caused by a collision outside his control. An unexpected accident leaves many questions unanswered and families searching for the truth. This accident undoubtedly has caused great pain in countless lives, and I pray those impacted can find the solace they seek.
When faced with an accident involving two semi-trucks, the investigatory process can become daunting. Commercial companies are no stranger to fatal accidents and the monetary repercussions. Drivers killed due to another’s negligence are entitled under the law to damages to compensate the family left behind. Because of this, commercial insurance providers seek to push blame on innocent victims to limit responsibility and avoid liability.
An investigation into the other driver’s actions should be conducted as soon as possible to preserve the truth. While the reports allege the other semi jackknifed, it is important to understand what the driver was doing to cause the truck to jackknife in the first place. If the truck had not been jackknifed, no accident would have occurred. Thus, it becomes necessary to look at the driver’s actions to ensure no foul play. In short, the family deserves to know whether this accident was caused by a fatigued, impaired, or distracted driver. Until we have this information, we can only surmise on the events leading to this accident.
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