An Austin crash survivor has filed a $100 million lawsuit following a March 13 accident on Interstate 35. The crash involved a truck driver under the influence of central nervous system depressants, causing a fatal pile-up.

The details: The truck driver, Solomun Weldekeal Araya, is accused of ignoring safety and crashing into stopped traffic. This tragic event resulted in five deaths and injured 11 others.

• One victim, Nathan Jonard, was left with severe spinal injuries and broken bones, causing a permanent change to his life.
• Two other individuals remain hospitalized due to serious injuries suffered in the accident.

The lawsuit has targeted Amazon and ZBN Transport. Jonard argues both companies share liability for employing Araya, who allegedly had a track record of reckless driving and safety breaches, reported KVUE News.

Legislative context: This lawsuit emerges as Texas lawmakers work on bills that could limit damages victims can claim in such accidents.

As of now, the identities of three adult victims have been released, with the names of a child and a baby yet to be made public. The case continues to bring attention to hiring protocols and safety standards within the trucking industry.