Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Survivors of Avon Crash Receive "Saved By the Belt" Award

Bizarre "Falling Truck" Accident Leaves Couple Thankful



An Avon couple that survived a violent, fiery crash on Mother's day received the "Saved By The Belt" award from the Avon Town Council Tuesday in a moment of closure for the small town that still frequently discusses the extraordinary event.

Lara Wahl and Bradley Zellefrow were driving from their apartment to some nearby tennis courts when their Honda CRV was crushed from above by an out-of-control semi trailer. Both Wahl and Zellefrow were wearing their seat belts, which likely saved their lives.

"Pretty much something fell from the sky. We didn't know what. I thought it might have been a piece of the road or part of the guardrail or something," remembered Zellefrow. "We didn't know then it was a truck."

"I still find it hard to believe it really did happen," added Zellefrow. "I'm getting there. I'm still processing. I look at things now and say, 'Why did I used to get upset about that?' ... I don't know if there will ever be a time when we can say it's over."

The falling vehicle struck the driver's side of the Honda, driven by Wahl. She was pinned and suffered lacerations, though the most telling injury she suffered was a long, thin bruise corresponding to the location of her seat belt. Zellefrow assisted Wahl in escaping the vehicle, and they then were taken by ambulance to an emergency room in Vail. The wreckage later exploded in flames, killing the driver of the semi. 

Seat belts usage is mandatory for drivers and front seat passengers in Colorado, and violations are punishable as a Class B traffic infraction.

If you or someone you know is injured in a truck accident in Colorado, please call The Law Offices of Robert Paysinger, P.C. for a free initial consultation at (303) 279-0221. We help injured people - It's all we do!

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