Trucking accidents are extremely dangerous and claim far too many lives in Kentucky and the surrounding states each year.

A recent trucking accident just north of the Kentucky state border left seven occupants of a minivan dead on Oct. 27. The accident occurred at 6 p.m. approximately 10 miles to the east of South Bend, Indiana, on the Indiana Toll Road.

The fatal accident occurred after the minivan collided with a deer, slammed on its brakes and then was crushed from behind by an 18-wheeler. Seven of the occupants in the minivan were killed, including an infant in a car seat. Neither the infant nor any of the other occupants were buckled into seat belts, according to police.

The three surviving occupants of the minivan were transported to a local hospital by helicopter for medical attention. Two of them, a woman and a man, were described as in critical condition, while another man was reported in stable condition.

The man in stable condition reportedly told police that the van occupants were all related to each other and were cousins or other relatives, but not immediate family members. It is believed that at least a few of the victims were immigrants from Ecuador who lived in the Chicago area.

The driver of the semi trailer truck suffered only minor injuries and was released after treatment at a hospital. Tests conducted on the 24-year-old driver indicated that he had not been drinking or on drugs, and no criminal charges have been brought against him.

The truck was reportedly traveling at approximately 65 mph at the time of the collision.

This tragic accident reminds everyone of the importance of wearing a seatbelt at all times. However, it also reminds truck drivers that they must be follow cars at a safe distance and be prepared to slam on the brakes should the car ahead of them need to stop suddenly.

Source: USA TODAY, "7 dead after truck slams into minivan in Ind.," Oct. 28, 2011.