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Fighting for Justice: The Hein v. Utility Trailer Case and the Advocacy of McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA

In the pursuit of justice, there are individuals and firms that stand out for their unwavering dedication to making a difference. One such case that sheds light on the importance of safety in the trucking industry is Hein v. Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company. This landmark case, tried by the renowned attorneys at McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA, highlights the tragic consequences of negligence and the tireless efforts to hold accountable those responsible for preventable accidents.

Don't miss “America's Dangerous Trucks,” a compelling documentary resulting from the collaborative investigation by FRONTLINE and ProPublica. Tune in for the premiere on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 10 p.m. EDT/9 p.m. CDT, exclusively on PBS stations (check local listings). You can also stream it on YouTube, the PBS App, and FRONTLINE's website. For more in-depth information on underride crashes and the safety of cars and trucks, check out this article: Link to the Article

The Case

Hein v. Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company, filed in the New Mexico First Judicial District Court, centers around a fatal side underride collision involving a Honda Civic driven by Riley Hein, a bright and promising 16-year-old. The collision occurred on November 13, 2015, when Riley's vehicle was struck by a Utility Trailer 3000R refrigerated trailer on Interstate 40 in Tijeras, New Mexico.

Underride accidents pose a significant danger to smaller vehicles, as they can result in devastating injuries and fatalities. Despite the Federal Highway Administration's efforts to encourage trailer manufacturers to develop side underride protection, Utility Trailer continued to produce trailers without any features aimed at preventing these types of accidents.

Tragically, Riley Hein lost his life due to the lack of side underride guards on the trailer. The collision caused his vehicle to become pinned underneath the trailer, leading to a fatal outcome. This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for stricter safety regulations and the accountability of manufacturers in the trucking industry.

The Attorney

Representing the Hein family in their pursuit of justice were the experienced trial lawyers at McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA. With over 35 years of experience, this renowned firm has built a reputation for their tireless advocacy, unwavering commitment to their clients, and their determination to bring about meaningful change.

McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA firmly believe in preparing every case for trial, as this approach increases the likelihood of their clients receiving fair settlements. Their personalized strategies, tailored to the unique circumstances of each case, have consistently yielded successful outcomes. The firm's dedication to their clients and their community is exemplified by their efforts to obtain changes that enhance safety through litigation, legislative action, and regulatory reform.

Making a Difference

The Hein v. Utility Trailer case illustrates the broader impact that litigation can have beyond the courtroom. While seeking compensation for their clients, McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA also endeavors to bring about systemic change. By holding negligent companies accountable, they strive to create safer environments for all.

Through their relentless pursuit of justice, McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA has exposed instances of corporate neglect, leading to new laws, tightened safety regulations, and reformed practices. Their work has not only resulted in financial motivation for wrongdoers to rectify their actions but also provided a platform for victims to share their stories with a wider audience, generating empathy and driving societal change.

Documentary: “America's Dangerous Trucks”

The impact of the Hein v. Utility Trailer case and the dedication of McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA have been captured in the powerful documentary, “America's Dangerous Trucks.” This collaborative investigation from FRONTLINE and ProPublica delves into the dangers inherent in the trucking industry and shines a light on the need for stricter safety regulations.

“America's Dangerous Trucks” premieres on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at 10 p.m. EDT/9 p.m. CDT on PBS stations (check local listings). For those unable to watch it live, the documentary will be available to stream on YouTube, the PBS App, and FRONTLINE's website. This documentary provides a compelling and in-depth look at the Hein v. Utility Trailer case and serves as a call to action for a safer and more just society.

Conclusion

Hein v. Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating consequences of negligence in the trucking industry. The dedicated advocacy of McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA has not only brought justice to the Hein family but has also initiated significant change within our communities.

As we witness the groundbreaking case and the impact it has had on safety regulations and corporate accountability, let us support the tireless efforts of attorneys like those at McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA. Their commitment to justice, challenging the status quo, and making a lasting impact on individuals' lives and our communities as a whole is truly commendable.

We invite you to tune in to “America's Dangerous Trucks” and experience the compelling story of the Hein v. Utility Trailer case, shedding light on the importance of safety and the pursuit of justice. Together, let us stand against negligence, advocate for change, and strive for a society that prioritizes the well-being and safety of all its members.

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