Fatal Crash on Interstate 74 Kills Cincinnati Man
A Cincinnati man was killed in a fatal crash on Interstate 74 near Batesville, Indiana, on October 16, 2023. According to the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, the two-vehicle crash occurred on westbound I-74 near the 151-mile marker around 5 a.m.
The initial investigation indicated that a 2000 Toyota passenger car, driven by Thomas Kotzbauer, 80, was stationary in the westbound driving lane with no headlights on. A UPS semi-tractor with dual trailers, driven by Herman Akers, 45, was traveling west when it collided with Kotzbauer’s car, according to available information.
As a result of the collision, both vehicles left the roadway. Kotzbauer was pronounced dead at the scene. Akers was uninjured. Toxicology results are pending, although alcohol and drugs are not suspected to be factors in the crash, according to available information.
The crash occurred during the “danger zone” for semi trucks. According to expert studies, semi-truck collisions between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. have been reported to be up to 7 times more likely to cause death or serious bodily injury. The rear reflectors of the vehicle should have been visible to the oncoming semi even if there were electrical issues with the car’s lights. Tragedies like this can occur when drivers do not keep a reasonable lookout.
The Legal Team at Scherr Law is Here to Help Big Truck Accident Victims
In the unfortunate event of being involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer, you may consider seeking fair compensation. Jim Scherr’s legal representation has successfully recovered more than $370 million on a Judgment against FedEx and has recovered compensation for many clients who have suffered losses due to unsafe driving of commercial trucks. Scherr Law has emerged as a leading advocate in the effort to hold FedEx responsible for its practices that have caused severe injuries and tragic fatalities.
If you or a loved one is involved in a tragic, catastrophic, or wrongful death accident involving a tractor-trailer or a FedEx vehicle, contact the attorneys at James Scherr Law for a complimentary consultation at 1.855.SUE.FEDX.