According to CNN, the truck driver accused of plowing into a bus carrying comedian Tracy Morgan was due to be arraigned in court last week on criminal charges.
The truck accident, which occurred on the New Jersey Turnpike on June 7, critically injured Morgan, as well as Ardie Fuqua, Jeffrey Millea and Harris Stanton. It also killed Morgan’s longtime friend, comedian James McNair.
Morgan is a former cast member of “Saturday Night Live” and the comedy series “30 Rock”. He reportedly suffered several catastrophic injuries including a broken leg, which required surgery.
Kevin Roper was scheduled to be arraigned at Middlesex County Court in New Jersey last week. He was arrested following the accident and remained free on a $50,000 bond. He was allegedly operating a truck for Wal-Mart at the time of the crash. He was charged with vehicular homicide and assault by auto.
Police allege that Roper had been awake for more than 24 hours at the time of the crash. He reportedly failed to notice traffic slowing in front of him when he hit Morgan’s bus.
Wal-Mart released a statement after the crash indicating that it believed Roper was operating within federal guidelines, and that it would take full responsibility if the investigation showed the company was to blame.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a New Jersey Truck Accident?
It should be noted that truck accidents happen nearly every day for a wide variety of reasons. Some of these accidents can occur because of driver fatigue, the failure of a driver to follow safety regulations, unsecure cargo, alcohol or drug use and reckless or aggressive driving.
Additionally, truck accidents can occur when a company sets unrealistic schedules or guidelines for drivers, and fails to maintain or fix parts on a truck. Trucking company negligence is a very serious issue that can result in personal injuries and wrongful death.
If you lose a loved one or are injured in a truck accident, you should seek damages. Hold the driver and the company liable if carelessness occurred. For more information, you can also visit our Facebook page, LinkedIn page, Google+ page or our Twitter page. Contact us today.
Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. – Bergen County Injury Lawyers
KGG’s Corner: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reviews truck driver qualifications, licensing and hiring practices.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/06/11/showbiz/tracy-morgan-crash/