Children of Truck Crash Victims File Lawsuit

By Heather Siladi

Published on December 29, 2006

The families of Joann and Ross Young filed a suit against the driver of the 18-wheel truck, Ronnie R. Tarpley, his employers, and the owner of the truck, which include Southwest Paper Stock Inc., Alternate Wood Fuel Transport Inc., and Service Waste Incorporated. The families claim that it was the negligence of the defendants that caused Joann Young’s death and Ross Young’s serious head injuries.

The police reports indicate that Tarpley, 49, ignored a stop sign at the intersection of St. Paul Drive and U.S. 287, near Mansfield, prior to crashing into the Young’s pickup truck. According to the reports, the brakes in the 18-wheeler may have malfunctioned or failed entirely.

Because trucking companies are required by law to employ safe drivers and keep their vehicles in safe working-condition, the companies involved may be held liable for the accident if they are found to have neglected their responsibilities.

The lawsuit consists of personal injury claims filed on behalf of Ross Young and his children and a wrongful death claim filed on behalf of Joann Young and her children.

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