A Georgia Department of Corrections employee, a Forsyth County sheriff’s deputy and a civilian were involved in a three-vehicle crash on the morning of Nov. 16 near Lake Lanier. Two of the three drivers were injured, and all three vehicles suffered serious damage. Fortunately, the injuries weren’t reported to be life-threatening.
According to a Georgia State Patrol officer, the crash occurred when the 21-year-old driver of the van hit a car on Buford Dam Road, east of Sweetwater Drive. He was reportedly on a downhill curve when he hit a guardrail, went back on the road and crossed over into oncoming traffic, striking a 44-year-old Dacala woman in a Nissan Versa.
That wasn’t the end of it. The driver of the van, who was not transporting any passengers at the time, swerved back over, hitting the guardrail a second time. He once again crossed over the center line. This time, he hit the deputy’s patrol vehicle. The 39-year-old deputy was transported to a hospital. It wasn’t reported whether the woman in the Versa was hospitalized. The driver of the van didn’t suffer any injuries.
Authorities say that they don’t believe drugs or alcohol were a factor in the crash. The driver of the DOC van received a ticket for failing to maintain his lane.
When someone is involved in an accident caused by someone driving a government-owned vehicle, it may be possible to hold one or more agencies or jurisdiction civilly liable for injuries and damages. It’s wise to seek legal guidance to determine who can and should be held responsible.
Source: Forsyth County News, Forsyth Count deputy, civilian injured in 3-vehicle crash involving state inmate transport van, Kayla Robins, Nov. 18, 2016
