JACKSON COUNTY, Mo. — Kim R. Pawling tragically died in the early hours of Jan. 9 in a head-on collision on Interstate 29.
Pawling, a 53-year-old Kansas City resident, was southbound in the northbound lanes of I-29 and collided head-on with a northbound semi-tractor, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred when both vehicles attempted to avoid hitting each other by swerving into the passenger lane.
Pawling’s vehicle came to rest in the median of I-29. The semi crossed the median and came to a stop in the southbound passing lane of I-29.
Pawling was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.
Authorities have not released any information on factors that may have contributed to the crash.
Commentary on the Fatal Head-On Crash Leaving Kim R. Pawling Dead
News of this tragic death leaves me deeply saddened. Accidents causing premature death have a lasting impact on the deceased’s family, friends, and community. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Ms. Pawling’s family and hope for their solace as they navigate this challenging episode.
Head-on collisions are one of the primary causes of death in accidental collisions. The greater the size disparity between the vehicles, the greater the risk of serious injury or death. When the crash involves a semi-truck and standard-size vehicle, the results are nearly always devastating.
A detailed investigation will need to be conducted to determine what happened here. From preliminary reports, it has been reported the two vehicles navigated from their lane to avoid a collision. However, what caused the drivers to be in such a precarious position requiring such actions?
Generally, avoidance tactics are required when distracted driving leads one driver to leave their designated travel lane. However, having represented clients involved in head-on collisions across the nation, I have found accidents of this nature can be entirely outside the driver’s control. For instance, mechanical failure can render a vehicle uncontrollable. Auto manufacturers are often held liable for product defects that lead to serious injury or death when this happens.
I hope those involved in this accident may receive the answers they seek. May the family find strength during the process.
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