Truck Carrying Smithfield Foods Meat Overturns, Catches Fire on February 17, 2025

Sampson County, NC (February 17, 2025) – According to local news reports, a tractor-trailer carrying meat products from Smithfield Foods crashed and caught fire on NC Highway 24 near Sampson Community College and Bass Lake Road late Monday night. The incident, which occurred around 8:10 p.m., caused a significant fuel spill and led to an intense firefighting effort to contain the flames.

Emergency officials reported that the 18-wheeler struck a bridge embankment near the Great Coharie Creek bridge before overturning. The impact caused the truck to leak fuel, which quickly ignited, leading to a fire that took nearly an hour to control. While the flames were extinguished, residual smoke continued to billow from the tanker.

Authorities urged residents and travelers to avoid the area while emergency crews worked to manage the active fuel leak and investigate the accident. Westbound traffic on NC 24 was backed up for at least a mile as officers directed vehicles through an alternative route via the Coharie Country Club. Eastbound traffic remained unaffected.

The condition of the truck driver remains unclear, though reports indicate he was receiving medical attention inside an ambulance at the scene. Officials have not yet determined the cause of the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as authorities continue gathering details.

Finding a Personal Injury Attorney in Sampson County, NC

Dealing with an injury caused by someone else’s negligence can be overwhelming. From mounting medical bills to lost wages, the impact of an accident can disrupt your life in ways you never expected. If you are facing these challenges, hiring a personal injury attorney in Sampson County, NC, can help you understand your rights and seek compensation for your losses.

A knowledgeable attorney can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and ensure you receive the settlement you deserve. Without legal representation, you may be pressured into accepting a lower payout than you are entitled to, which can leave you struggling to cover expenses in the long run.

What a Personal Injury Attorney in Sampson County, NC Can Do for You

Many accident victims underestimate the complexity of personal injury claims. A personal injury attorney in Sampson County, NC, will work on your behalf to build a strong case. Their role includes:

• Investigating the accident and collecting evidence to prove liability
• Handling all communication with insurance companies to protect your interests
• Assessing the full extent of your damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering
• Negotiating settlements that reflect the true value of your claim
• Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached

By working with an attorney who understands North Carolina’s personal injury laws, you increase your chances of securing the compensation you need to recover.

Why Hiring a Local Attorney in Sampson County, NC Matters

Choosing a personal injury attorney who is familiar with Sampson County, NC, can make a significant difference in your case. Local attorneys understand the courts, judges, and procedures specific to the area, giving you an advantage when it comes to presenting your claim. They also have experience handling cases involving local road conditions, businesses, and law enforcement reports, which can be crucial when establishing liability.

An attorney with local experience will also be more accessible for in-person consultations, making it easier to stay informed about your case’s progress. When dealing with a serious injury, having a legal team you can trust nearby can provide much-needed peace of mind.

How a Sampson County Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Crash

Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, often leading to serious injuries and extensive property damage. If you or a loved one has been involved in a collision with a commercial truck or tractor-trailer in Sampson County, seeking legal guidance is crucial. A Sampson County truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and financial losses.

Trucking companies and their insurance providers often have legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts for accident claims. Without experienced legal representation, you may face challenges in securing the settlement you deserve. A knowledgeable lawyer will investigate the accident, gather critical evidence, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.

Common Causes of Truck and Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Sampson County, NC

Tractor-trailer accidents are often caused by a combination of driver error, vehicle issues, and hazardous road conditions. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Sampson County, NC, include:

• Driver fatigue – Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to exhaustion and impaired decision-making.
• Distracted driving – Texting, eating, or using a GPS while driving a commercial truck can lead to catastrophic accidents.
• Improper loading – Overloaded or unbalanced cargo can cause a truck to tip over or become difficult to control.
• Brake and mechanical failures – Poor truck maintenance or defective parts can lead to sudden failures on the road.
• Speeding and reckless driving – Large trucks require more time to stop, and excessive speed increases the risk of crashes.

A Sampson County truck accident lawyer will thoroughly examine the details of your accident, including driver logs, truck maintenance records, and road conditions, to determine who is responsible for your injuries.

What to Do After a Truck or Tractor-Trailer Accident in Sampson County, NC

The moments after a truck accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal case. If you are involved in a truck or tractor-trailer accident in Sampson County, NC, follow these important steps:

• Seek medical attention immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, some symptoms may take time to appear.
• Call law enforcement – A police report will provide an official record of the accident and key details about what happened.
• Gather evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
• Get witness statements – Collect names and contact information from anyone who saw the accident occur.
• Avoid discussing fault – Do not admit responsibility or provide statements to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without consulting a lawyer.

A truck accident lawyer in Sampson County can help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the crash. They will work to hold negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, or vehicle manufacturers accountable for their role in the accident.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a truck or tractor-trailer accident, do not wait to seek legal advice. A skilled attorney can protect your rights, handle complex negotiations, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is Your Best Choice for Tractor-Trailer Accident Cases in Sampson County

A serious tractor-trailer accident like the one that occurred in Sampson County can have devastating consequences. Whether you or a loved one has been involved in a similar crash, seeking legal support from an experienced team can help you understand your options. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, NC, provide legal guidance for victims of truck accidents across North Carolina, including Sampson County.

Tractor-trailer accidents often result in extensive damage, complex liability issues, and negotiations with large trucking companies and insurance providers. Having a knowledgeable legal team on your side can make a crucial difference when it comes to pursuing fair compensation. The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman focus on helping accident victims navigate the legal process, ensuring they receive the representation they need during difficult times.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a tractor-trailer accident in Sampson County, taking legal action may be necessary to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Rosensteel Fleishman offers free consultations to help victims determine their best course of action. Contact them today at 1-704-714-1450 to discuss your case.

How a Sampson County Tractor-Trailer Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Tractor-trailer accidents are often more complicated than standard car crashes. These cases involve multiple parties, including truck drivers, trucking companies, and insurance providers, all of whom may dispute liability. A Sampson County personal injury attorney can help determine fault by investigating driver records, truck maintenance logs, and road conditions at the time of the accident.

Rosensteel Fleishman’s legal team has extensive experience handling cases involving commercial trucks. They know how to identify negligent behaviors such as driver fatigue, improper vehicle maintenance, or reckless driving, all of which can contribute to devastating crashes. By thoroughly examining evidence, they build strong cases that advocate for victims' rights.

Seeking Compensation for Medical Bills and Damages

Serious injuries are common in tractor-trailer accidents, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Victims may face overwhelming hospital bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery needs. A tractor-trailer accident lawyer in Sampson County can help victims pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation
• Lost income due to time away from work
• Pain and suffering caused by the accident
• Property damage resulting from the crash
• Long-term disability or diminished quality of life

Rosensteel Fleishman understands the financial burdens accident victims face. Their attorneys fight for full compensation, ensuring that victims receive the support they need to rebuild their lives after a traumatic event.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

Trucking companies are often quick to deny fault after an accident, making it challenging for victims to recover damages. A skilled attorney can gather crucial evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and accident reports, to prove negligence.

By working with a Sampson County tractor-trailer accident attorney, victims can ensure that responsible parties are held accountable. Whether the crash resulted from driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or dangerous road conditions, Rosensteel Fleishman’s legal team knows how to build a case that stands up to insurance companies and corporate lawyers.

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina

Rosensteel Fleishman has earned a strong reputation for representing personal injury victims across North Carolina. Their team focuses on delivering clear, straightforward legal advice, making sure clients understand their options without the stress of dealing with insurance companies alone.

“We believe in providing personalized attention to every client, ensuring that they feel supported throughout the legal process,” said attorney Corey Rosensteel. “Our goal is to fight for the compensation they deserve so they can focus on their recovery.”

With a focus on client advocacy, Rosensteel Fleishman takes on trucking companies and insurance providers, leveling the playing field for accident victims. They have successfully handled numerous truck accident cases, securing compensation for those injured due to negligence. Their knowledge of North Carolina law allows them to craft strong legal strategies that align with the specific details of each case.

Start Your Free Consultation With a Trusted Sampson County Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer accident in Sampson County, seeking legal help as soon as possible can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman offers free case evaluations to help you understand your rights and options. With no upfront fees, you can get the legal advice you need without financial pressure.

Call 1-704-714-1450 today to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. Whether you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or the emotional toll of an accident, Rosensteel Fleishman is here to help. Their team is committed to guiding you through the legal process, fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.