According to news reports a motorcycle and a semi-truck collided just outside of Alanreed TX on April 21 2012 at about 3:30 in the afternoon. The accident left 15-year old Donald Waldenmayer III dead and Billy and Toni Norris injured. Waldenmayer III was reportedly riding west on I-40 with his father Donald Waldenmayer Jr. when an 18-wheeler struck his motorcycle and drove through a nearby guardrail.

Scene of the Accident

The truck was driven by 56-year old Norris and also carried his 53-year old wife Toni. Both occupants of the 18-wheeler sustained back injuries and cuts when the semi-truck rolled over and trapped the couple inside. Authorities have not released any more information related to the accident but stated that they would investigate the cause of the accident further. Waldenmayer was reportedly an experienced biker but was killed in the collision instantly. 

Commentary
In one news feed the motorcyclist and his father are described as attempting to overtake the 18-wheeler in the left passing lane. The father cleared the truck but in this particular feeds account as the young man was passing the rig it shifted into his lane striking the bike. Liability is not something that is developed in a news article and is only relied upon via the findings of an independent investigation into the accident. However if that account is indeed how the accident occurred it could indicate a level of driver inattention on behalf of the trucker. For this to be actionable the investigation would need to link the truckers actions with that of the accident through evidence gathered at the scene as well as depositions taken. From there it may be possible to seek compensation through a wrongful death motion.

- Attorney Michael Grossman