Zander Lee Humble Charged After Kenneth Earl Payne's Death in Greensboro on January 31, 2025

Greensboro, NC (January 31, 2025) – According to local news reports, a tragic workplace accident in the parking lot of Estes Express Lines on Electra Drive has led to the death of a 70-year-old employee and the subsequent charging of a Thomasville man. The incident, which occurred on January 31, has raised concerns about workplace safety and vehicular operations in industrial areas.

Details of the Fatal Workplace Accident in Greensboro

On the morning of January 31, 2025, Kenneth Earl Payne, 70, of Burlington, was walking through the parking lot of Estes Express Lines when he was struck by a commercial vehicle. Payne, an employee of the company since 2005, was wearing a high-visibility orange vest at the time of the accident, adhering to industrial safety protocols.

The vehicle involved in the accident was a 2016 Autocar Yard Jockey, a truck used for moving trailers and containers within freight yards. The driver, identified as 20-year-old Zander Lee Humble of Thomasville, was operating the vehicle when he collided with Payne. The impact caused severe injuries, and Payne was transported to a local hospital, where he remained for several days before succumbing to his injuries on February 10.

Driver Charged Following Investigation

Following an investigation by the Greensboro Police Department, authorities determined that Humble’s actions warranted criminal charges. On February 11, police announced that Humble had been charged with reckless driving to endanger and misdemeanor death by motor vehicle. These charges indicate that while the accident may not have been intentional, it was caused by negligent driving behavior that ultimately led to a fatal outcome.

The Greensboro Police Department confirmed that Payne’s death marked the city’s third pedestrian fatality of the year. Workplace accidents involving vehicles remain a serious concern, particularly in industrial environments where heavy machinery and pedestrian traffic frequently intersect.

Company Statement and Safety Concerns

Estes Express Lines issued a statement expressing condolences to Payne’s family and acknowledging his long-standing contributions to the company.

"We are deeply saddened over the death of Kenneth Earl Payne, 70, an employee at our Greensboro terminal. Kenneth had been with Estes since 2005 and was a valued member of Team Estes. We continue to lend our full support and cooperation to local and state law enforcement as they investigate this matter. On behalf of the entire Estes family, our heartfelt sympathies go out to Kenneth’s family, friends, and Estes colleagues."

While the company did not comment on specific safety policies, Payne’s adherence to high-visibility attire suggests that existing safety measures were in place. However, the incident underscores the need for continued vigilance in workplace safety, particularly concerning the operation of commercial vehicles in pedestrian-accessible areas.

Legal Considerations Following a Workplace Fatality

When workplace accidents result in fatalities, several legal aspects come into play. Employers must adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to ensure a safe working environment. In cases where an employer or third party is found negligent, the victim’s family may have legal options to seek justice and compensation for their loss.

Misdemeanor death by vehicle and reckless driving charges, as seen in this case, highlight the potential legal consequences for individuals whose actions contribute to fatal accidents. However, families affected by such incidents often face additional challenges, including financial hardships and emotional distress. Consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation or wrongful death attorney can help families navigate their legal rights and options.

Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Greensboro, NC Is Important

When you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, having a personal injury attorney in Greensboro, NC can make all the difference in your case. Whether you were hurt in a car accident, a workplace incident, or a slip and fall, navigating the legal system alone can be overwhelming. A skilled attorney helps protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, offering settlements that may not fully cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced personal injury attorney understands how to counter these tactics and build a strong case on your behalf. From gathering evidence to representing you in court if necessary, a lawyer ensures that every aspect of your case is handled properly.

How a Greensboro Personal Injury Attorney Can Help After an Accident

A personal injury attorney does more than just file paperwork. They act as an advocate for injured victims, ensuring they are not taken advantage of by insurance companies or opposing parties. If you have been injured in an accident, a personal injury attorney can help by:

• Investigating the accident and gathering necessary evidence.
• Calculating damages to determine the full extent of your losses.
• Handling all communication and negotiations with insurance companies.
• Representing you in court if a fair settlement is not offered.
• Providing guidance on legal options so you can make informed decisions.

With a Greensboro personal injury attorney on your side, you can focus on recovery while your lawyer works to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Why Greensboro Car Accident Lawyers Are Essential After a Crash

Car accidents happen in an instant, but the aftermath can last a lifetime. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision, hiring a Greensboro car accident lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take. These attorneys handle all legal aspects of your claim, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Many accident victims assume that insurance companies will take care of everything, but this is rarely the case. Insurers often try to reduce or deny claims, leaving victims without the financial support they need. A car accident lawyer in Greensboro ensures that your claim is properly filed, evidence is collected, and all negotiations are handled to maximize your compensation.

What a Car Accident Lawyer in Greensboro Can Do for You

After a car accident, you may be dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and mounting medical bills. A Greensboro car accident lawyer helps alleviate this burden by handling the legal process for you. Their role includes:

• Investigating the accident scene and reviewing police reports.
• Collecting witness statements and securing expert testimony.
• Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
• Filing a lawsuit if negotiations do not lead to a just settlement.
• Representing you in court if your case goes to trial.

Having a dedicated car accident lawyer in Greensboro ensures that your case is handled efficiently and that you receive the compensation you are entitled to after an accident.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Trusted Legal Advocate for Workplace Accidents in North Carolina

When a workplace accident results in severe injury or death, families are often left with unanswered questions and financial uncertainty. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers, based in Charlotte, NC, has a strong track record of helping victims and their families seek justice in workplace injury and wrongful death cases across North Carolina.

With decades of experience handling personal injury and workers’ compensation cases, the firm provides clients with knowledgeable legal guidance while ensuring that their rights are fully protected. Whether an accident involves a trucking company, industrial machinery, or hazardous workplace conditions, the attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman understand the complexities of these cases and work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for their clients.

How a Greensboro Personal Injury Attorney Can Help After a Workplace Accident

Navigating the legal system after a workplace accident can be overwhelming, particularly when dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and insurance negotiations. An experienced workers comp attorney can help by:

• Investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine liability.
• Assisting families in filing workers’ compensation claims.
• Pursuing wrongful death claims when negligence is a factor.
• Negotiating settlements with insurance companies to ensure fair compensation.
• Representing clients in court if necessary.

At Rosensteel Fleishman, the focus is always on securing justice for victims and providing compassionate legal support during difficult times.

Legal Options for Families After a Workplace Fatality

Families affected by a workplace accident may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can provide financial relief for medical expenses and lost income. In cases where negligence is involved, wrongful death claims may also be an option to hold responsible parties accountable.

The attorneys at Rosensteel Fleishman have successfully represented clients in cases involving workplace fatalities, helping them recover the compensation they deserve. By taking a personalized approach to each case, they ensure that families understand their legal options and make informed decisions about their next steps.

Get the Legal Support You Need From Rosensteel Fleishman

Losing a loved one in a workplace accident is devastating, and the legal process can feel overwhelming. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help, offering experienced legal representation and a commitment to achieving justice for families affected by wrongful death and workplace injury cases.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a workplace accident in Greensboro or anywhere in North Carolina, contact Rosensteel Fleishman for a free consultation. Call 1-704-714-1450 today to discuss your case with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.