A family on its way to New Jersey for a funeral suffered severe losses after its minivan collided with a deer and was subsequently hit by an 18-wheeler truck. A total of seven members of the extended family were killed in the car accident.

Those killed in this accident included a 52-year-old man and his 16-year-old son, a 26-year-old woman and her 8-year-old daughter, and a 21-year-old mother and her two young children. Three other passengers sustained injuries requiring treatment at a hospital. Two were listed in stable condition, and another was listed in serious condition. Authorities said that none of the family members were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident, including children and infants.

The fatal accident occurred after the minivan struck a deer, and either slowed down or came to a complete stop. The truck, which was traveling at highway speed behind the minivan, was unable to avoid the van and slammed into it from behind. Both vehicles subsequently crashed into the center median. When emergency response crews arrived at the scene, the minivan was crumbled and torn open by a piece of metal.

Police do not believe alcohol or drugs were involved in the accident and have not filed charges against the truck driver. Any charges to be filed are likely pending the completion of their investigation. The driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital to receive medical treatment.

Individuals killed in such accidents often have spouses or children that are dependent upon them. Often the loved ones that they leave behind do not even know where to begin without the guidance of the person that they lost. These types of accidents are almost always unexpected. Law firms can provide their own investigations of matters and locate and interview witnesses in a timely manner. Law firms can also keep local and state authorities engaged concerning follow-up of the incident in question. Also, law firms can assure relatives and loved ones that their concerns are being taken seriously.

The president of the Workforce and Development Administration sent his agency’s sympathies to the deceased’s remaining relatives.

Source: Today News, “7 relatives killed in crash on Indiana highway,” Oct. 28, 2011