In a tragic incident earlier this year near Chandler, Arizona, a distracted semi-truck driver’s use of TikTok led to a fiery crash on Interstate 10, resulting in the loss of five lives. Now, facing charges for his negligent actions, 36-year-old Danny G. Tiner’s case sheds light on the dangers of distracted driving and the urgent need for justice. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) has taken significant steps in investigating the accident and holding the responsible parties accountable. The victim’s families are now seeking justice with a personal injury attorney in Arizona with a wrongful death lawsuit.
The Fiery Crash and Its Tragic Consequences:
On January 12, 2023, around 6:15 a.m., Danny G. Tiner, a semi-truck driver, was driving 68 mph in a 55-mph construction zone on I-10 near Chandler. Distracted by using TikTok on his cellphone, Tiner collided with two cars, propelling them into another semi-truck and two additional vehicles just beyond the Chandler Boulevard exit. The impact caused the two cars to burst into flames, tragically claiming the lives of five individuals. The freeway remained closed for approximately 11 hours as authorities responded to the catastrophe.
Victims of the Devastating Collision:
The five victims who lost their lives in this heart-wrenching crash were identified as Gilberto Franco, Ryan Gooding, Andrew Standifird, Willis Thompson, and Jerardo Vazquez. Their families, forever impacted by this tragedy, are now seeking justice for the loss of their loved ones.
Uncovering the Truth: DPS Investigation and Charges:
Following the accident, DPS investigators quickly determined that distracted driving played a significant role in the collision. Tiner’s initial explanation that he received a work-related message and could not stop in time proved insufficient. The DPS, aided by the FBI, conducted a thorough examination of Tiner’s cellphone, revealing that he was actively using TikTok moments before the crash. As a result, Tiner was arrested and booked into jail, facing five counts of manslaughter, four counts of endangerment, and one count of tampering with physical evidence, all of which are serious felonies.
Prior Incidents and a Troubling History:
Interestingly, records show that the same Illinois-based trucking company, Mr. Bult’s Inc., has been involved in 26 crashes in Arizona over the last two years. Furthermore, numerous violations were reported, including speeding and using a phone while driving. Such a troubling history raises concerns about the company’s safety protocols and underscores the importance of holding accountable those responsible for such accidents.
Seeking Justice Through Legal Action:
In the aftermath of this heartrending incident, Thompson’s family announced their intention to file a wrongful death lawsuit against both the driver, Danny G. Tiner, and the trucking company, Mr. Bult’s Inc. This legal action aims to seek justice for the victims and their families, holding the parties accountable for their actions and negligence.
The fiery crash on Interstate 10 near Chandler serves as a grim reminder of the catastrophic consequences of distracted driving. As the legal proceedings unfold, the families of the victims are seeking justice and accountability through a wrongful death lawsuit. The incident also highlights the importance of safe driving practices and the need for stricter regulations to prevent such devastating accidents on Arizona’s roads.
We extend our condolences to the family and friends of the victims of this crash. Call (602)254-6071 to talk with an Arizona personal injury attorney if you or a loved one were injured in a car accident.
Source: 3TV/CBS5