Investigation: Trucker fatigue main cause of Tracy Morgan crash

Pittsburgh fans of comedian Tracy Morgan breathed a sigh of relief when the “30 Rock” star survived a truck crash a year ago. But the accident took a heavy toll: Tracy was critically injured and fellow comedian James McNair was killed.

National Transportation Safety Board investigators said truck driver fatigue was the main cause of the accident. The Walmart trucker had been awake for more than 28 hours at the time of the wreck on the New Jersey Turnpike. His big rig was going 65 mph in a 45-mph zone when it smashed into the back of the van carrying Morgan and others.

The trucker drove more than 800 miles that day from his Georgia home to Delaware to begin his delivery route.

Morgan settled a personal injury lawsuit against Walmart for an undisclosed amount. The truck driver faces criminal charges of vehicular homicide and assault in the multi-vehicle collision that left nine injured and one dead.

Officials also said insufficient training and slow emergency medical response were factors contributing to damages in the incident. Responders required about 40 minutes getting passengers out of vehicles. Some medical workers failed to initially grasp the seriousness of the injuries, an NTSB doctor said.

Morgan indicated some weeks ago that he plans to resume his career, but that he still suffers headaches and other symptoms from his lingering injuries.

A Pittsburgh attorney experienced in cases of truck driver fatigue can help injury victims receive the compensation they deserve. A careful investigation of the crash, and detailed negotiations with insurers can bring a favorable settlement that does away with the need for a trial. If a trial is required, however, experienced courtroom litigators will fight for your interests.