Driving on icy roads around a semi-truck always makes me nervous. But things intensify even more during rare ice storms in Texas, where drivers aren’t used to the conditions. One trucker with Prime Inc serves as an example of needing to slow down after causing a fatal crash. 

Jury awards $44.1 million to family impacted during fatal semi-truck wreck 

In a rare ice storm in Fort Worth, Texas, drivers were stopped along Interstate 35, north of downtown, due to accidents. Then suddenly, a semi-truck owned by Prime Inc., and driven by Steven Ridder rear-ended another vehicle. 

The vehicle was being driven by 49-year-old Christoper Ray Vardy, who didn’t survive the collision. According to Truck News, he was one of six people who lost their lives during the tragic traffic accident. 

Evidence shows Ridder didn’t receive proper winter weather driving training and failed to exercise caution. Ridder was accused of driving too fast during the icy conditions as he plowed into stopped vehicles. 

Frank L. Branson, an attorney representing the victim’s family, shared that trucking companies are obligated to ensure tractor-trailers are being operated safely. 

That includes taking extra precautions during extreme weather conditions due to the size and weight of these rigs. A fully loaded semi-truck weighs up to 80,000 lbs. 

The massive $44.1 million verdict includes $24.1 million in compensatory damages and $20 million in punitive damages due to negligence in employing an unfit driver. Also, the verdict places 75% of the liability on Ridder. 

Remember, in icy conditions, stay home! Don’t leave unless you absolutely have to. If you must go out, slow down and be prepared for emergencies.