Sharing the road with semi-trucks and other larger vehicles is a daily occurrence in Kentucky–especially on the interstate. Whether it’s I-64, I-75, or the Bluegrass Parkway, you have to keep an eye out for these vehicles. Unfortunately, a recent story from WKYT shows how dangerous a collision can be.
According to the Kentucky State Police, a 16-year-old was killed on Sunday, July 20, 2025 when the truck he was riding in was rear-ended by a semi-truck on I-75 near Buc-ee’s. There were several vehicles involved, including another semi-truck. KSP said that congested traffic was part of the issue.
The collision happened around 6:00 p.m. The first semi-truck failed to slow down in time, rear-ending the pickup truck driven by the teen’s father. The impact sent the semi-truck into a guardrail and a second pickup truck, while the first pickup truck was sent into the rear of a second semi-truck.
The 16-year-old was taken to Baptist Health Hospital in Richmond, where he was pronounced dead. His father and sister were also taken to the hospital with injuries, but they are expected to recover.
Can a Passenger File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Truck Accident?
When someone is killed in a vehicle accident, it’s incredibly tragic. But when the passenger is younger, it’s even more tragic–and potentially confusing when it comes to the claims process. In Kentucky, only the:
- “Personal representative” of the child’s estate can file a wrongful death claim.
Normally, this is someone named in a will. However, it’s highly unlikely that a child is going to have a will in place. At that point, a probate court can name someone as the personal representative–typically the parents, if the child was a minor. At that point, the claim can be filed either through insurance or a lawsuit. From there, it’s about establishing negligence and showing that there are “damages” like:
- Medical and funeral expenses – You can recover the costs of medical treatment after the accident, as well as funeral and burial expenses.
- Loss of companionship – This covers the heartbreak of losing your child’s presence, support, and daily connection.
- Emotional and mental pain – Parents can try to recover damages for the deep grief and emotional trauma caused by their teen’s death.
- Loss of future support –This accounts for the long-term loss of the care, help, and support your child would have provided as they grew older.
- Loss of financial support – Even if your child wasn’t earning full-time wages, you can still claim the value of their part-time work or expected future contributions.
You have just one year from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim in Kentucky, which makes it important to act quickly—especially in complex truck accidents. That’s why it’s important to have the right legal help.
Kaufman & Stigger Can Help Families After a Fatal Truck Accident in Kentucky
You’re not required to have a lawyer to file a wrongful death claim in Kentucky—but after a fatal truck accident, the legal side can quickly get overwhelming. These cases often involve multiple companies, trucking regulations, and insurance hurdles that families shouldn’t have to face alone—especially while grieving the loss of your loved one. This is where Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC’s Kentucky truck accident lawyers can help by:
- Breaking down your legal options in plain language
- Collecting records, reports, and other key evidence
- Dealing directly with the trucking company and their insurance companies
- Filing the wrongful death claim and making sure it’s done with care
Nothing can undo the loss, but the legal system does allow families to hold negligent parties accountable and seek support for what comes next. We’re here to walk with you through that process. Get started with a free consultation by contacting us today.
