Traffic accident investigators report that many accidents are caused by drivers who travel too fast for road conditions. This concern becomes even more pressing as the winter weather brings slippery roads and icy conditions. Montana residents are not exempt from this unfortunate fact. A tragic car accident just before the New Year claimed the life of a 67-year-old area woman. The head-on collision happened on Highway 2 just west of Libby, according to authorities.
The accident occurred at about 2:40 p.m. on Dec. 27, 2012, according to local investigators. The woman was killed when a 45-year-old woman operating a Ford Bronco plowed into her minivan head-on. The driver of the Bronco reportedly lost control of her vehicle because of slippery conditions. She reportedly swerved over the center line after fishtailing for some time. Both vehicles came to rest in the center of the road, effectively blocking traffic.
Reports show that the victim and her 31-year-old daughter were injured in the collision because they were not wearing seatbelts. Two youngsters, ages 2 years and 2 weeks old, were properly restrained and did not sustain harm. The driver of the car responsible for the accident was also transported to the hospital, along with her 27-year-old passenger.
Authorities report that alcohol is not suspected as a factor in the crash, but routine toxicology screenings are currently underway. The driver of the vehicle that crossed the center line will most likely be cited for driving too fast for conditions, though it is not clear whether other charges will be filed at this time.
People injured in the crash could sue the responsible driver for medical costs and funeral costs, among other claims. It is possible that they were required to take time away from work because of their injuries, which could lead to a loss of income claim, along with pain and suffering and other woes. It is not clear whether the victims plan to file a wrongful death or related suit at this time.
Source: The Western News, “Accident kills woman, 67,” Alan Lewis Gerstenecker, Dec. 28, 2012.