ATLANTA, Ga. — A young woman was tragically killed just three days before her 25th birthday in a devastating seven-car pileup on Interstate 75, her family confirmed.
McKayla Harshaw lost her life in the tragic accident after traffic was diverted around a disabled Pontiac vehicle on Friday, Sept. 27, according to authorities. The crash, which occurred around 1:30 p.m. near Northside Drive and Howell Mill Road, caused the southbound lanes of I-75 to be shut down for several hours.
Harshaw, a vibrant young woman with her entire life ahead of her, was sitting in the passenger seat of a Toyota Corolla, accompanied by her boyfriend, when the accident unfolded. According to the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), as traffic slowed down, a chain reaction of collisions began. Two trucks struck a van, which collided with another vehicle, eventually causing the Toyota Corolla in which Harshaw was a passenger to overturn. The impact was severe, and despite efforts, Harshaw did not survive the crash.
Her mother, Melissa Gunther, described the emotional toll of the sudden loss. “McKayla was a beautiful, thriving young woman with her entire life ahead of her,” Gunther shared. The family has since set up an online fundraiser to help cover the costs of Harshaw’s funeral. As of now, the campaign has raised nearly $15,000 in donations, highlighting the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community.
Compensation at Stake for Victims
In tragic accidents like this, there are various types of compensation at stake for the victims and their families. These can include compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Families may also be entitled to damages related to pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and potential punitive damages if negligence or reckless behavior played a role in the crash. In McKayla Harshaw’s case, the family could pursue compensation for the significant financial and emotional toll this accident has taken.
At Winston Briggs Law, we understand that no amount of compensation can bring back a loved one, but it can help ease the financial burden during such difficult times. Our experienced team of attorneys specializes in handling complex car accident cases like this, where multiple vehicles and parties may be involved. We work tirelessly to ensure that victims and their families receive the full compensation they deserve, holding negligent parties accountable for their actions.
We help navigate the often overwhelming legal process, conducting thorough investigations to determine the exact cause of the accident and identifying all liable parties. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or representing families in court, we provide compassionate, dedicated legal representation to get justice for those who have suffered unimaginable losses.
How We Can Help
At Winston Briggs Law, our priority is ensuring that families like McKayla Harshaw’s receive the support and compensation they deserve. We handle all aspects of the legal process, from investigating the crash to negotiating settlements or pursuing litigation. Our attorneys have extensive experience in dealing with multi-vehicle accidents, and we are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of our clients. If you or someone you love has been involved in a serious car accident, we are here to help. Reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us guide you through this challenging time.
The tragic loss of McKayla Harshaw is a reminder of the devastating consequences of such accidents, and we are here to provide the legal support necessary to help families recover.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Should you identify any inaccuracies, please notify Winston Briggs Attorneys for corrections. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
Source: Atlanta News First