4-vehicle accident takes the life of 57-year-old Marshfield woman

A multi-vehicle auto accident occurred Monday on Highway 97 near Stratford, Wisconsin. Four vehicles were involved in the domino-like crash. One vehicle travelling south allegedly slowed down to make a turn; another approaching vehicle was unable to stop to avoid hitting the first vehicle and veered into the northbound lane. A third vehicle heading north struck the second vehicle.

While the three accident vehicles were stopped at the scene, a fourth vehicle heading north struck two of the stationary vehicles. At least 20 emergency vehicles showed up to assist. The highway was shut down, backing up traffic for miles. A 57-year-old woman was killed and a 49-year-old man was injured. He was transported to Marshfield to Saint Joseph’s Hospital. According to the Marathon County Sheriff’s lieutenant, speed and inattentive driving seem to be the cause of the multiple-car collision. The speed limit on Highway 97 is only 55 mph.

Highway 97 has seen more than its share of car accidents lately. Three other accidents have occurred since May – two of them resulting in fatalities. It seemed that two of the three accidents were also very similar. One included a 26-year-old Athens woman who was killed when she crossed the centerline and collided with a semi-truck and trailer. Another one included a 20-year-old male who suffered serious injuries when he crossed the centerline and collided with another 18-wheeler. The second one allegedly was alcohol-related.

When someone’s life is unexpectedly taken due to an auto accident, it can be devastating for loved ones. If the collision was caused by the negligence of another, the family may want to contact an attorney and file a wrongful death suit. Insurance may cover initial costs, but cannot compensate for such things as grief and distress. While a wrongful death suit will not bring a loved one back, it can help to compensate the family for any additional medical or funeral bills, and even loss of companionship.

Source: 
Wausaudailyherald.com, “Update: One dead in Stratford crash” Shereen Skola, Jul. 02, 2013