On Tuesday afternoon, just before 3 p.m., a fatal crash occurred on Interstate 5 near milepost 4 in Jackson County, Ashland, Oregon. The incident involved a black Honda Civic driven by Terielizabeth Smead, 68, from Lemon Grove, California. The vehicle veered out of its lane and collided with a stationary Freightliner semi-truck parked on the shoulder of the highway.
The collision resulted in the closure of a significant section of the highway for approximately five hours as emergency services responded and conducted preliminary investigations. The authorities are working to understand the circumstances that led to the Honda Civic leaving its lane, examining factors such as vehicle condition, driver health, and road circumstances at the time of the accident.
Casualties and Investigation
Casualties
- Harry Smead, 74, a passenger in the black Honda Civic, tragically died in the crash on Interstate 5. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The driver of the Honda Civic, Terielizabeth Smead, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
- Shekib Hakimi, 30, the driver of the stationary Freightliner semi-truck from Carmichael, California, was not injured in the incident.
Investigation
In response to the accident, the following agencies promptly arrived at the scene to provide assistance and manage the investigation:
- Oregon State Police
- Jackson County Sheriff's Office
- Ashland Fire and Rescue
The primary focus of the investigation is to ascertain why the Honda Civic veered out of its lane and collided with the semi-truck. Authorities are examining various factors to determine any underlying causes or contributing factors to the incident, including:
- The condition of the vehicle
- The health of the driver
- The road circumstances at the time of the crash
How Goldfaden Benson Can Assist Victims of Highway Accidents
Victims and families impacted by highway accidents may be eligible to pursue compensation for various losses, including medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering. These incidents can have devastating effects on those involved, both financially and emotionally. Seeking legal guidance can be a crucial step in addressing these challenges and ensuring that justice is served.
At Goldfaden Benson, we have extensive experience handling cases involving fatal crashes and serious injuries. Our legal team is dedicated to ensuring that victims receive the justice they deserve. We conduct thorough investigations into each incident, examining all potential factors and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a highway accident, contact Goldfaden Benson today for expert legal guidance and support. Our commitment is to provide compassionate and effective representation, helping you navigate the complexities of your case and secure the compensation you are entitled to.
