Where & When the Accident Happened
MERCER COUNTY, PA — Around 8:04 p.m. last Friday, a serious crash occurred on Interstate 79 southbound near mile marker 129, just south of Greenville Sandy Lake Road, in New Vernon Township. The incident was initially reported after an 18-year-old driver lost control of a vehicle.
Sequence of the Crash
Officials say the vehicle veered off the east side of the roadway, struck and went over an embankment, then overturned. The overturned vehicle came to rest blocking the northbound left lane, where it was later struck by another vehicle that had lost light functionality.
Victims & Injuries
A 19-year-old Pittsburgh resident who was a passenger in the first car was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of that vehicle sustained serious injuries and was transported to a hospital. The driver of the second vehicle was not reported injured.
Safety & Seat Belt Observations
State police noted that the driver in the first car was not wearing a seat belt. The passenger was using a seat belt at the time of the crash, though it could not prevent the tragic outcome.
Road Conditions & Further Investigation
The cause of the crash remains under active investigation, including checking vehicle lighting, speed, driver behavior, visibility, and roadway conditions. Authorities have not publicly confirmed which factors contributed most.
Legal Options for Families
When wrongful death results from vehicle accidents, families may seek legal compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering. Consulting with an experienced car accident attorney can help clarify options and preserve rights.
How Chaffin Luhana Can Help
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How We Can Help
At Chaffin Luhana, our compassionate Pittsburgh car accident lawyers assist families impacted by tragic crashes. We offer free case reviews, gather necessary evidence, and fight to hold negligent parties accountable.