Few people in Kentucky likely take a moment to consider the potential ramifications of the decision to ride in a car as a passenger. Not only do they assume the inherent risks that come with traveling on the state’s roads and highways, but they also place a great deal of trust in those driving them.
Not many consider the investment of trust in this transaction to the relationships they already have with the driver. Yet no matter how strong that relationship may be, one cannot control another’s actions while that person drives. They must, however, accept the consequences of those actions.
One dead in Graves County collision
A recent accident that occurred in Graves County illustrates this often-tragic point. According to the local CBS News Affiliate, an SUV traveling along KY 1241 collided with a truck from behind. Per reports, the vehicles collided as the truck attempted to catch up to the surrounding traffic after just entering onto the road. Authorities did not, however, detail who they believe to be at fault in the accident.
The driver of the truck did not sustain any injuries in the accident, while first responders transported the driver of the SUV to a local hospital for treatment. Sadly, a passenger in the SUV died from her injuries.
Driver liability for passenger injuries
One might argue that an adult passenger accepts responsibility for their own safety when traveling in another’s vehicle. Yet should passengers (of any age) sustain injuries due to a driver’s negligent action, they may qualify for civil remedies to help ease the financial burdens that may accompany them, despite the difficulty that may come from taking legal action against a driver one knows personally.