JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – A heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday morning, resulting in the death of a man in a wheelchair after being struck by a semi-truck on Red Wolf Boulevard. The Arkansas State Police reported that the fatal collision took place at the intersection of Red Wolf Boulevard and Highland Drive at approximately 9:40 a.m. on June 22.
According to the preliminary fatal crash report, a semi-truck had stopped in the northernmost turn lane on Highland Drive, preparing to turn north onto Red Wolf Boulevard. Meanwhile, Jerry Kifer, a 72-year-old resident of Jonesboro, was traveling westbound on the sidewalk.
Kifer entered the roadway and stopped in front of the passenger’s front bumper area of the truck, according to ASP. Subsequently, the truck continued northward, colliding with Kifer and resulting in his tragic and untimely death.
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This is a terrible crash that will undoubtedly cause significant pain in the lives of many. The surviving family will deserve answers about what happened and why the truck driver failed to see Mr. Kifer at the crosswalk.
When a loved one passes away unexpectedly, the family has a right to bring a wrongful death claim against the entities responsible for the death. A case like this is difficult for families because the trucking company will likely blame the deceased.
The trucking company will be represented by lawyers who are paid to limit the company’s financial responsibility by shifting blame onto other parties. This is often unfair and unjust. When trucking companies escape liability, the family never receives the answers they deserve, are never compensated for their loss, and the company can continue in its negligent actions.
It is too early to tell exactly what happened here. Fault cannot be determined until after a detailed investigation is completed. However, when a man loses his life, it is important that all details are uncovered, and all responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.
During this difficult time of grief, I offer my condolences to the Kifer family and hope they receive the support and answers they seek.
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The Ammons Law Firm represents clients nationwide in catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation, with extensive experience in complex auto/tire defect and commercial vehicle cases.
Disclaimer: This post is not legal advice. Information contained in this blog was compiled from third-party sources or is the opinion of the author. Please inform us immediately if false or misleading information is contained in this post.
