Unicoi County Tree Trimmer Killed by Distracted Driver
Jamie M Stevens, 32, was hit and killed December 19, 2011 by a driver claiming that the sun was in his eyes. James A. Garland, the driver, said he never saw Stevens working in the construction zone along Highway 107 in Limestone Cove. He says the morning sun was rising over the mountain, obscuring his vision.
Stevens was just beginning his workday as a crew leader for Wolfe Tree. The company was trimming trees along the power lines on 107. Stevens was walking along the roadway back to the main truck when he was struck and killed.
The accident occurred at about 9:00 a.m., a time when the sun was coming over the mountain. This fact led Tennessee Highway Patrol to say that speed was not a factor. But some questions remain unanswered about it.
The posted speed limit on the road is 55 mph but slows to 15 mph in a construction zone, according to work crews. While Garland says he was not speeding, witnesses report that Stevens was hit with enough force to flip him in the air several times.
A passing doctor stopped and tried to help Stevens, but he was pronounced dead at Johnson City Medical Center. Stevens leaves a wife and four children behind. Wolfe Tree employees are offering to cut trees free of charge for people who will donate money to the family.
The Memphis law firm, Bailey & Greer, offers condolences to Stevens’ family in the wake of this tragic accident.
Since graduating magna cum laude in 2005 from the University of Memphis School of Law, Thomas has helped make a difference in the lives of victims of serious personal injury, wrongful death, and professional negligence. Thomas has extensive trial experience in both state and federal court. Among other victories in the courtroom, Thomas obtained several impressive jury verdicts and settlements
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