State Settles for $350K After Tow Operator Struck

A legal battle following a crash on I-40 near Carnuel, New Mexico has ended with the state agreeing to pay $350,000 to the family of tow truck driver Tommy Avent. Avent, a 40 year veteran operator with A-Albuquerque Towing, was critically injured in January 2022 while clearing a wreck at the request of Albuquerque Police.

According to court filings, Avent repeatedly asked for assistance from APD and the New Mexico Department of Transportation, citing the danger of working on the busy interstate. The lawsuit alleged those requests were ignored, leaving him exposed. While securing the disabled vehicle, Avent was struck by a hit-and-run driver, suffering severe injuries that resulted in nearly $800,000 in medical bills.

The accused driver, Steven Erb, has yet to face justice. He failed to appear in 2023, and a bench warrant remains active. Avent, who dedicated decades to roadside safety, passed away in January 2024.  Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news