Donald Chapman Killed in Jacksonville, FL, 18-wheeler Accident
Jacksonville, FL -- March 4, 2017, Donald Marcus Chapman III was killed after an accident where his vehicle and an 18-wheeler collided.
Jacksonville Police released preliminary information regarding the two-vehicle crash which happened around 10:45 p.m. at the intersection of San Jose Boulevard and Loretto Road.
According to reports, 16-year-old Chapman was northbound along San Jose traveling through the intersection of Loretto. Ahead of him was a northbound 18-wheeler attempting to make a left turn. The vehicles somehow crossed paths and collided head-on.
Emergency service officials say that Chapman died at the scene. The truck driver was not injured.
The exact cause of the accident has not yet been determined. Investigations are ongoing.
Map of the Area
Commentary
The news reports I'm seeing on this accident don't seem to be answering the most important question here, which is, "Was the 18-wheeler turning or was it sitting still?" A lot of reports have been angling it that Mr. Chapman's vehicle just hit the truck out of nowhere, but this is a controlled intersection. Who had the right of way at the time? Was the truck turning through intersection, entering Chapman's path? If so, was it a protected turn, or was the truck supposed to yield?
There just aren't enough available details surrounding this accident to determine what happened. I just hate to see someone so young falling victim to a fatal accident only to have everyone jump to negative conclusions. Anyone hurt or killed in an accident deserves the benefit of the doubt until all of the details surrounding an accident are made clear. There needs to be a thorough investigation by an experienced professional before any conclusions can be drawn about this crash. Until then, everyone should reserve their judgements and focus on what can be done for those affected by this accident.
--Grossman Law Offices
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