Driver cited in connection with 5-vehicle accident in Dallas

A 30-year-old Texas man has been cited for failing to control the speed of his vehicle and for not having proof of insurance after his 2007 Ford F-350 caused a multi-vehicle accident. As the driver traveled west at a high speed, authorities said, his truck hit a westbound Nissan Armada, initiating a chain-reaction collision that ultimately involved five vehicles. The Nissan, in turn, stuck a Dodge Ram also traveling west, and the Dodge truck then hit a 2012 Ford F-350 in the westbound lanes. Meanwhile, the Nissan crossed into eastbound traffic and was hit by another Dodge Ram that was traveling east. This Dodge truck rolled multiple times as a result of the impact with the Nissan, also striking the 2012 F-350.

Although several individuals were affected by the incident, only the driver and passenger of the eastbound Dodge truck were transported to local medical facilities for care along with the 30-year-old driver thought to be responsible for the incident. Their injuries were not deemed life-threatening, and the men have since been released from the hospital. A family, including four children, occupied the Nissan, and all reportedly escaped injury in the auto accident.

According to officials, the driver of the speeding truck has been cited but not arrested. A recent announcement by local officers indicated intentions to arrest more individuals involved in reckless driving incidents. However, officers investigating this case indicate that none of the witnesses reported reckless driving on the part of the individual cited in the case. Texas laws do not provide for arrest for speeding. Reckless driving in Texas is the operation of a vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of individuals or property.

While the driver in this case hasn"t been arrested, his actions have caused a great deal of damage and stress for others involved. Those injured may face unexpected medical costs as well as loss of work because of the automobile accident. An attorney assisting an injured plaintiff in such a case could examine accident investigation results and the responsible driver"s previous driving record to paint a picture of negligence to prove liability in a personal injury suit.

Source: OA Online, "Man cited with failure to control speed after five-vehicle accident," Audris Ponce, March 20, 2014