Truck Driver Injured in 18-Wheeler Accident on I-95 in Westport, CT
Westport, CT — December 6, 2022, a truck driver was injured in a collision with another big rig on Interstate 95 in Westport.
Authorities say the incident happened shortly before midnight on the southbound interstate between exits 17 and 18. The cause and circumstances of the wreck aren't clear yet, but responders found two 18-wheelers crashed in the travel lanes. One of the trucks reportedly jackknifed and had a ruptured fuel tank, but no fires were reported.
One truck driver was transported to an area hospital for treatment of unspecified injuries. No other injuries were reported.
The investigation continues. No further information is available at this time.
Commentary on 18-Wheelers Accident on I-95 in Westport
Over the years I've learned that crashes between commercial trucks often become lengthy and high-stakes games of "hot potato" between the companies involved. Most won't accept responsibility without a fight, and while they bicker back and forth about what happened on I-95 the people affected by the crash may be stuck waiting for answers and help.
Some may think that police investigations will help settle any disputes in the near future, but their preliminary findings aren't really set in stone--which these businesses know very well. In their effort to avoid liability they'll poke holes in police reports and send out their own investigators to find evidence they aren't to blame.
I'm not saying the investigation is doomed or getting help for the injured driver is hopeless. I'm just saying it may take more than a basic once-over by police to find what's needed to help the victim. That may just sound cynical, but it comes from plenty of experience helping truck drivers and families whose lives were changed forever by such accidents. When it's time to hold someone accountable all notions of industry cooperation evaporate, at least as far as the companies and their lawyers are concerned.
Furthermore, many commercial drivers believe their only recourse is through workers' compensation after these accidents. In some cases that may be true, but on principle the parties responsible for their damages should also help them get back on their feet. Ensuring they do that requires abundant clear proof, though, so taking the necessary steps after any accident is vital.
