Unity Township, OH (October 25, 2024) – A serious head-on collision in Unity Township left a woman from East Palestine with life-threatening injuries, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on Friday afternoon on State Route 165.

Authorities identified the injured driver as 35-year-old Ashley Irizarry. According to troopers, Irizarry was traveling on State Route 165 when a semi-truck, driven by 39-year-old Matthew Bertolette of Columbiana, veered into the opposite lane and collided head-on with her Nissan Pathfinder. The impact was so severe that Irizarry’s SUV was pushed into another vehicle directly behind her, which was driven by 20-year-old Sela Guy, also from East Palestine.

Local firefighters had to extricate Irizarry from the wreckage. She was then airlifted to a hospital in Youngstown for treatment of life-threatening injuries. Fortunately, both Bertolette and Guy were not injured in the crash.

According to the patrol, Bertolette was distracted at the time of the incident. State Route 165, which was temporarily closed between Route 14 and the Mahoning County Line, has since reopened.

Protecting Your Rights after a Truck Accident Today

Truck accidents can lead to severe injuries and complicated legal situations. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, understanding your rights is crucial. Trucking companies often have legal teams working to minimize their liability, making it essential for victims to seek legal representation immediately. Start by documenting all details related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, and eyewitness accounts. This information is vital for building a strong case. An experienced truck accident attorney can help navigate the complexities of dealing with large trucking companies and insurance providers. They will work to prove liability, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, represent you in court. Taking swift legal action helps secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, ensuring your rights are protected after a truck accident. Remember, prompt action is key to achieving a favorable outcome.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

• The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue.
• The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
• Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
• Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.

The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know have been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more with our disclaimer.