The size differential between an armored truck and smaller vehicles may be fatal in a crash. Distracted driving compounds this danger. For example, a driver of an armored truck talking on his cell phone is the apparent cause of an accident that caused serious injuries to a father driving his family in Phoenix on July 1.
The driver of an armored truck lost control of his vehicle and served into incoming traffic around 8:15 a.m. on 51st Avenue north of Elliot Road. The truck driver said he picked up his cellphone to call his next stop when he lost control, according to police. The truck landed on the hood of a pickup truck. A father, his two teenage children and their dog were in the truck.
Police said that the father is hospitalized in very critical condition. The two children and the occupants of the armored vehicle suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a hospital. The family’s dog was not injured and is being kept by the Arizona Humane Society until the family can pick it up.
Over 12 emergency vehicles, including three ladder crews, responded to the crash. Stabilizing the armored car was vital so that it could not further injure the family. This extrication was one of the most difficult performed by the Phoenix Fire Department, according to its spokesperson.
Use of cell phones while driving is dangerous for all vehicles and their occupants. Engaging in distractions such as reaching for a phone, dialing and texting increases the risk of causing a car accident.
Victims of accidents involving an inattentive truck driver and their families should seek advice on whether they are entitled to compensation from the truck company or other negligent parties. By filing a personal injury suit, car accident victims can recover much need compensation from negligent drivers. This compensation can help to cover expenses caused by the accident including medical costs and lost wages.
Source: 12 News and the Arizona Republic, “Phoenix police: Armored-truck driver used cellphone before crash,” Connor Wince, July 1, 2014