During a March 16 court appearance, a Brampton truck driver chose to go to trial to face 10 charges in connection with a deadly 2013 crash. Two Ontario men died in the fiery collision.
Authorities said the 50-year-old defendant was driving a tractor-trailer north on Hurontario Street around 4:15 a.m. on Nov. 16, 2013, when he rear-ended a taxi that was stopped near the intersection of Derry Road. The impact knocked the taxi into a ditch 100 metres north of the intersection and caused it to burst into flames. The 38-year-old taxi driver and his 47-year-old passenger, both from Mississauga, were trapped in the vehicle as it burned. They were pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
The truck driver was charged with operating an unsafe vehicle, careless driving and several commercial vehicle inspection and maintenance violations. The defendant’s employer, Windsor-based Moe’s Transport, was also charged with three inspection and maintenance violations. The trial is scheduled to begin on March 26.
Commercial truck companies and the drivers that they hire are expected to follow all road rules and properly maintain their vehicles for the safety of themselves and others. Unfortunately, many truck collisions occur because drivers or the companies cut corners and operate unsafe vehicles. Following a fatal truck accident, a negligent driver may face civil litigation in addition to any criminal charges that are issued. With the help of a lawyer, the decedent’s family may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault driver and his or her employer seeking compensation. Possible damages include funeral and burial costs, loss of income, loss of companionship and pain and suffering before death. A victim’s family members could learn more about their legal rights by consulting with a lawyer.
Source: Bramptonguardian.com, “Brampton trucker heading to trial in fiery, double fatal crash,” Louie Rosella, March 16, 2015
