The Upatoi community is in mourning following the loss of 80-year-old Anny Schenk, killed in a car accident Sunday morning, December 22, 2013.
According to Muscogee County authorities, Ms. Schenk left Sunday morning church services around 11:30am. Moments later, she and her passenger, Mildred King, were struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Macon Road and Jenkins Road. Tragically, Ms. Schenk perished from her injuries.
Initial reports indicate Ms. King was alert and speaking following the crash. She is in critical condition at the Midtown Medical Center.
Police have not announced whether the driver who hit Anny Schenk will be facing charges. However, investigators at The Murray Law Firm are questioning whether impairment, distraction or excessive speed may have been factors in this accident:
- The posted speed limit on Macon Road is 65mph. How fast was the vehicle traveling when it hit Ms. Schenk's car? Was excessive speed a factor in the driver's inability to stop or swerve in time?
- How did the driver fail to notice Ms. Schenk in time? Was the driver engaged in texting or other digital distractions? Was the driver impaired by drugs, alcohol or prescription medications?
- What safety precautions, such as intersection caution lighting, stop lights and speed bumps, have the town installed to protect drivers crossing the 4 lane intersection at Macon Road and Jenkinso Raod?
Should the driver be found at fault in this tragedy, the family of Ms. Schenk and Ms. King may elect to hold the driver civilly liable for the wrongful death and injuries suffered in this accident. Such a substantial claim will, most importantly, serve to remind other drivers of the dangers of distracted driving. Further, such claims will also call on local officials to re-evaluate traffic safety at the intersection. Perhaps additional safety measures will save many more lives.
Our sincere condolences are with the family of Anny Schenk and we pray for the swift recovery of Mildred King. The Murray Law Firm works tirelessly to protect victims and families of tragic car accidents, such as this, and we offer our legal expertise, if needed.
Anyone seeking information on our investigation is encouraged to contact us at 706.494.2800.
