In October of 2024, the death of a Georgia woman made national headlines after a seven-car pileup on I-75. The details of this crash highlight the human suffering and anguish that has become so common after traffic deaths. Too often, we view fatal car accidents in Marietta as simple statistics – but numbers do not paint the full picture, especially in regard to the families of victims.
Two Utility Trucks Spark Seven-Car Collision
Traffic authorities say that this crash began when two utility trucks crashed into a van on I-75. The van then veered into a Toyota Corolla occupied by a couple, causing their vehicle to overturn and slam into an Audi. Various other vehicles were swept into the maelstrom – and the woman died from her wounds. Her boyfriend was also in the car, and he suffered a broken neck, fractured skull, and other injuries.
Determining fault for any multi-vehicle collision is often extremely difficult. Authorities say that this crash began because a disabled Pontiac vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway – and this may have been a contributing factor for the entire crash. How did the two utility vehicles impact the van? Did they approach the disabled vehicle at a high rate of speed? Who had the right of way? Did the van merge improperly? These are all important questions that may arise during the traffic investigation.
These questions may also arise during a potential wrongful death lawsuit. While the family of this deceased woman is still reeling from the incident, they may eventually explore their options for compensation. A wrongful death lawsuit can help grieving families cover unpaid medical bills, funeral expenses, lost future wages, and other damages.
Boyfriend Was Days Away From Proposing
One of the most tragic aspects of this story is the fact that the victim’s boyfriend was just days away from proposing. The family claims that he had planned to ask the victim to marry him on her 25th birthday, which was fast approaching when the accident occurred. This seemingly small detail resonated with the American people, and it was one of the many reasons this story received nationwide coverage.
Can I File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit After a Fatal Accident in Cobb County?
You may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal accident in Cobb County. Generally speaking, these lawsuits are reserved for close family members. Usually, it is the spouse, adult child, or parent of the victim who files the wrongful death claim.
Another requirement is proving negligence, and you must establish that someone else caused the fatal crash if you want to pursue compensation. For example, you could sue a trucking or utility company for causing the accident. You might also sue a reckless, distracted, or intoxicated motorist.
Another requirement to keep in mind is the statute of limitations. In Georgia, you must file your personal injury lawsuit within two years of the accident. While it may take time to process what just happened, prompt legal action is highly advisable.