A North Carolina trooper is at fault for causing a car accident on Interstate 95. An internal investigation showed that the trooper failed to yield the right of way, which led to an accident. It is likely he will receive internal discipline for his role in the car accident.
The officer was attempting to merge and did not yield to another vehicle that had the right of way. The officer was pursuing a speeding driver, but did not turn on his patrol car lights. His vehicle was rear-ended by a 35-year-old driver.
Both men were transported to the hospital to be treated for injuries considered minor in severity. However, both vehicles had to be taken from the scene by tow trucks due to severe tire damage. The driver who rear-ended the trooper’s vehicle has not been charged in the incident.
All drivers on North Carolina roads shoulder a duty of care for others when they get behind the wheel. No matter one’s profession, every driver is required to obey road signs and pertinent laws. It is not known whether the trooper will face criminal charges for his role in the car accident. Although the man’s injuries were minor, they still likely resulted in hospital bills and property damage that were due to no fault of his own. There have been no reports on whether the man will pursue any type of civil action in the matter, but the option is available should he decide to press forward at a later time.
Source: fayobserver.com, “North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper found to be at fault for Wednesday accident on I-95,” Caitlin Dineen, Aug. 17, 2012