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Tragic hill-jumping accident claims lives of 5 relatives

Five people from the same family were killed in a crash in Hamilton County following a common rural activity known as hill-jumping. According to county deputies, locals call the area “thrill hills.” Drivers speeding in the area have been known to go airborne. In this incident, the thrill killed. All six members of the family were residents of Collinsville.

The fianc? of a 23-year-old woman who died in the crash claimed the activity was popular among locals, and although he claims to have done it, he has sworn off the activity for good. Other fatalities included three adults and one 16-year-old female who had been a student at Collinsville high school.

According to investigators, six individuals were riding after on Anderson School Road after 10 p.m. The incident occurred just north of County Road 1000 North. Four passengers were ejected and died from injuries suffered after the vehicle lost control and rolled over several times. The only passenger wearing his safety belt was trapped inside the SUV. The one surviving member of the crash, a 49 year-old resident of Collinsville, was airlifted to an Evansville, Indiana, hospital, where he was reportedly in critical condition.

A relative issued a statement saying the six members of the family had said good-bye and would be right back. They never returned. She speculated the riders had hit an air bump, which caused the vehicle to lose control. One investigator stated the hill-jumping activity is not a major issue in the area but admitted it has caused crashes. Neighboring residents have complained about excessive speeding over the hills.

The official added that individuals who participate in the reckless activity are putting themselves and others in danger since drivers are unable to see cars coming in the opposite direction. Investigators said the crash is the worst in county history.

Joy-riding can be a source of tragedy and frequently an act of irresponsibility. When sharing public roads, motorists should be concerned about their own safety, as well as the safety of others. In this case, negligence resulted in tragedy.

If you have been injured in a car accident or lost a family member because of another person’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation for such claims as pain and suffering, medical expenses and other damages. Personal injury attorneys can help provide advice and information about your options.

Source:  kmov.com, “Collinsville teen, 4 others killed in rollover accident” Elizabeth Eisele, Nov. 25, 2013

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