Lawsuit filed after semi-driver hits Lubbock deputies on overpass

LUBBOCK, Texas — A lawsuit was filed on Tuesday after a distracted 18-wheeler driver hit two Lubbock deputies, along with three members of the Martinez family.

On September 8 just before 9:45 a.m., two deputies with the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office were helping a driver with a flat tire on the I-27 and 98th Street overpass. The lawsuit stated Gregory Vaught, a driver for Roth Products, was distracted on his cell phone when he “violently” crashed into the patrol vehicles.

The crash left Deputy Andrew Cavazos and Deputy Jorge Martinez pinned. Deputy Cavazos was nearly thrown 20 feet over the bridge, dangling by his leg until rescuers helped him. The second patrol vehicle was pushed back into the Martinez family truck, court documents stated.

“Texas law requires drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles,” a press release from Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers stated. “While every other driver complied, the Roth Products truck driver failed to slow down, failed to move over, and slammed into both patrol units.”

The lawsuit sought damages for physical pain, mental anguish, lost wages. A specific number was not listed in court documents on Tuesday.

“This crash is a stark reminder to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles,” said attorney David Glasheen . “These laws exist to protect first responders and people like the Martinez family.”