Merrick Co, NE – Ryan Peery Killed in Fatal Crash on HWY 14 Near U Rd

Merrick Co, NE (October 24, 2024) – A tragic two-car crash occurred on Thursday morning in Merrick County, resulting in the death of one individual and leaving another seriously injured. The Merrick County Sheriff’s Office reported the incident at approximately 10:30 a.m. on HWY 14 near U Rd in a rural area of the county.

According to the preliminary investigation, the driver of an SUV traveling north on HWY 14 crossed the center line and collided with a southbound pickup truck. The driver of the SUV, identified as 46-year-old Ryan Peery of Cass County, was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The driver of the pickup truck was transported to Merrick Medical Center before being airlifted to a hospital in Omaha with serious injuries. Airbags were deployed in both vehicles during the collision.

Emergency responders from the Nebraska State Patrol, Nance County Sheriff’s Office, Clarks Fire & Rescue, Central City Ambulance, and Central City Fire Department were on the scene to control traffic, assist with the extraction of the vehicles, and provide medical care. 

The investigation into the crash is ongoing. Our condolences go out to Ryan Peery’s family and friends during this difficult time.

Deadly Roads: The Increase in Car Accidents in Merrick County

The increasing frequency of fatal car accidents in Merrick County is a pressing concern for residents and local authorities alike. In recent years, the state of Nebraska has seen a rise in traffic-related fatalities, with nearly 300 lives lost in 2022 alone. Specifically, rural areas like Merrick County often face higher risks due to inadequate lighting, lack of pedestrian infrastructure, and higher speed limits. These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved road safety measures and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the number of tragic accidents. 

Moreover, intersection collisions, like the recent crash on HWY 14, account for a significant portion of traffic fatalities. According to the Nebraska Department of Transportation, over 40% of serious injuries from car accidents occur at intersections. This alarming trend underscores the importance of driver education regarding safe driving practices and adherence to traffic laws. 

Wrongful death occurs when an individual dies due to the negligence or wrongful act of another party. In the context of car accidents, this can include instances where drivers fail to follow traffic laws, drive under the influence, or exhibit reckless behavior. Typically, immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, have the right to file a wrongful death claim. However, laws may vary by state, so it’s essential to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights. 

Damages may include medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, loss of companionship, and pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death. An experienced attorney can help determine the appropriate compensation based on the specifics of the case.

If you have lost a loved one in a Merrick County fatal car accident, a knowledgeable Nebraska wrongful death attorney from Johnson Tabor & Johnson Law is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, our law firm offers personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.

To speak with our lawyers about your Merrick County car accident, call Johnson Tabor & Johnson Law at (402) 506-4444 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are tirelessly defended.

Notes: Our team collects accident information in Nebraska from a variety of external sources, such as news outlets, police records, social media platforms, and direct accounts from witnesses. Please note that the specifics of this incident have not been independently confirmed by our team. We encourage you to contact Johnson Tabor & Johnson Law immediately if you discover any discrepancies in our reporting. We will make the necessary corrections or remove the content as required.

Disclaimer: This post is not an attempt to solicit business. Please be aware that the information provided here does not serve as legal advice or form an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on specific factual and legal circumstances. If you need personalized legal advice, please directly reach out to Johnson Tabor & Johnson Law. Additionally, the image featured in this post does not depict the actual scene of the accident.