SANBORN, ND, (November 04, 2024) – A tragic crash in southeast North Dakota on Monday claimed the life of 46-year-old Sara Leick of Valley City. The accident occurred around 8:16 a.m. on Highway 1, near Sanborn.
Leick was a passenger in a 2008 Dodge Avenger driven by a 15-year-old girl from Valley City. The vehicle was traveling west across the highway at Barnes County Road 22 when it was struck on the passenger side by a 1995 Peterbilt tractor-trailer driven by a 59-year-old man from Sanborn. The impact pushed both vehicles off the roadway.
All individuals involved in the crash were transported to a nearby hospital. Despite wearing seat belts, Leick succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. The 15-year-old driver sustained life-threatening injuries, while the truck driver suffered serious injuries.
The North Dakota State Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, with speed and other factors being considered.
CRASH INVESTIGATION
Candice Bond, an experienced tractor-trailer accident attorney, said that in such cases, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted promptly to protect the rights of a victim.
“Tractor-trailer crashes are often complex, and many factors can play a role in these types of accidents,” said Bond, who is a Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“A skilled attorney can protect victims from trucking companies, which often send their own investigators to crash sites and possess a variety of resources they can utilize to defend a negligent truck driver.
“Your lawyer can advocate for you by hiring expert witnesses, conducting driver background checks, locating witnesses to the crash, and reviewing applicable insurance coverage, while carefully guiding a victim through the legal process.”
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
The family of Sara Leick may pursue compensation for damages such as costs associated with the death, loss of income and companionship, and other hardships.
“A death to a family member after an accident is both tragic and devastating to a surviving family. The grief, shock, and anger can be overwhelming,” said Bond.
She added, “Aside from the emotional suffering of those left behind, the death of someone close can have devastating financial implications. Loss of income and funeral costs alone can have tragic consequences when a family member is lost.”
