Dump Truck Crash Kills Ralph Hibbert in Old Fort on June 17, 2025

Old Fort, NC (June 17, 2025) - According to local news reports, a 65-year-old dump truck driver from Georgia, identified as Ralph Hibbert, tragically died after losing control of his truck while descending a steep stretch of Interstate 40 into Old Fort, North Carolina. The fatal crash occurred around 10:12 a.m. on Tuesday in the 500 block of Bat Cave Road.

Authorities confirmed that Hibbert was driving eastbound on I-40 when his truck’s brakes failed on a six-mile downgrade leading toward Exit 73. Witnesses said Hibbert was visibly attempting to stop by pumping the brakes, but the truck continued to accelerate. According to officials, the dump truck was estimated to be moving at speeds between 75 to 80 mph before exiting the interstate.

Despite multiple runaway truck ramps along the descent, Hibbert bypassed these emergency off-ramps and exited at the bottom of Exit 73. After running a stop sign, the truck reportedly swerved to avoid cars before going airborne for approximately 85 feet and crashing into a building under construction. Fortunately, no other individuals were injured in the crash.

Witnesses at the scene reported smoke coming from the truck and described a dramatic scene in which Hibbert did everything he could to avoid other vehicles. One bystander, watching from a McDonald’s nearby, described seeing the truck “shoot down the road,” narrowly missing stopped cars before impacting the embankment and launching into the construction site.

Old Fort Police Chief Melvin Lytle stated that the steep descent is well known for posing dangers to heavy trucks, especially those hauling large loads. Hibbert was transporting ballast gravel intended for railroad infrastructure, but he was not directly employed by Norfolk Southern. Emergency responders confirmed that no other persons were involved in the crash.

Local resident Lee Dubno remarked that such incidents are unfortunately not uncommon on this stretch of highway, sharing that he’s seen trucks catch fire or use emergency lanes in the past. “Coming down that mountain is always an issue,” Dubno said. “They do lose their brakes. I’ve witnessed trucks on fire, trucks in the runoff areas, smelling of burning rubber, and brakes.”

Police said that Hibbert may have entered the downhill stretch at an unsafe speed, contributing to the difficulty in regaining control. His identity was withheld initially until family could be notified. The crash remains under investigation by local authorities.

Working With a Personal Injury Attorney in Old Fort, NC

When someone is injured in an accident, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Medical bills start piling up, insurance companies start calling, and the stress can be overwhelming. That’s where a personal injury attorney in Old Fort, NC can make a big difference. These attorneys help people understand their rights and guide them through the process of recovering compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.

Whether it’s a truck accident, slip and fall, or a workplace injury, a personal injury attorney is focused on handling the legal process so you don’t have to. Their job is to investigate what happened, figure out who is at fault, and fight to get compensation that reflects the full extent of your damages—physical, emotional, and financial.

In towns like Old Fort, having access to an experienced legal team can bring clarity and direction during an uncertain time. Attorneys can also help with claims involving workers compensation and wrongful death, offering support for families dealing with the loss of a loved one due to an avoidable accident.

Why Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Old Fort, NC Is a Smart Decision

Hiring a personal injury lawyer in Old Fort, NC helps take the pressure off your shoulders. From filing insurance claims to negotiating with adjusters, your lawyer becomes the point of contact so you don’t have to deal with the stress. This can be especially helpful when injuries are severe, and you need to focus on rest and recovery.

Personal injury lawyers also know how to value your claim accurately. They understand how injuries impact your life not just today, but long into the future. With their help, you’re less likely to accept a settlement that doesn’t cover everything you truly need.

They also have access to resources like accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators who can strengthen your case. That kind of detailed preparation makes it easier to prove liability and fight for a fair outcome—whether through negotiation or in court if necessary.

Common Types of Cases a Personal Injury Attorney Can Handle in Old Fort

Personal injury attorneys in Old Fort, NC handle a wide variety of cases. While some involve minor injuries, others can be life-changing. No matter the scale, a lawyer can help make sure you’re treated fairly throughout the legal process. Here are a few types of cases commonly handled:

• Car and truck accidents, including dump truck collisions
• Workplace injuries and workers compensation claims
• Wrongful death cases involving fatal negligence
• Premises liability cases like slip and fall accidents
• Medical-related injuries or misdiagnoses

Having a lawyer who understands the local courts, insurance systems, and legal standards can be a huge benefit in any of these situations.

Finding the Right Dump Truck Accident Lawyer in Old Fort, NC

Dump truck accidents are some of the most dangerous crashes that can happen on North Carolina roads. These large vehicles are difficult to control, especially on steep grades like the one in Old Fort where Ralph Hibbert tragically lost his life. When these accidents occur, having a dump truck accident lawyer in Old Fort, NC can help victims and their families pursue justice and compensation.

These cases often involve commercial trucking companies, multiple insurance providers, and sometimes contractors or government entities. That’s why it's so important to have an attorney who understands how to approach the unique issues in dump truck accident cases.

A skilled legal team will collect critical evidence, work with experts to reconstruct what happened, and make sure your voice is heard—whether you're recovering from serious injuries or mourning the loss of a loved one. They can handle wrongful death claims, personal injury lawsuits, and help you explore workers compensation options if the victim was working when the crash occurred.

What an Old Fort Dump Truck Accident Attorney Can Do for You

An Old Fort dump truck accident attorney is there to protect your rights from day one. They manage the legal side of things so that you can focus on healing or supporting your family. That includes communicating with insurance companies, gathering medical records, and keeping track of deadlines for filing your claim.

They’ll also look into the full circumstances of the crash—like whether the vehicle was properly maintained, if the driver was trained and rested, and whether the company followed safety regulations. These details matter when determining fault and calculating what compensation should be sought.

If your case involves a fatality, your attorney will also be able to help with a wrongful death claim, which can include costs for funeral services, loss of income, and pain and suffering. These claims are never easy, but with a knowledgeable attorney, the legal steps become more manageable.

Why Local Experience Matters in Old Fort Dump Truck Accident Cases

Choosing a dump truck accident attorney who understands the Old Fort area can be a big advantage. Local attorneys are familiar with nearby roadways, know how steep mountain roads affect large trucks, and are used to working with local law enforcement and courts.

They also understand the risk factors common to the region, like long downgrades and narrow roads that can put pressure on heavy vehicles. That insight helps them build stronger cases and anticipate how opposing parties might respond.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a dump truck accident, don’t wait to get the support you need. Talking to a dump truck accident lawyer in Old Fort, NC can help you figure out your next steps and protect your future.

Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Choice for Dump Truck Accident Cases in Old Fort

When a dump truck accident turns deadly, like the tragic crash that took the life of Ralph Hibbert in Old Fort, families are often left feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their next steps. At times like these, working with a legal team that truly understands North Carolina personal injury and wrongful death laws can help provide some clarity. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers focuses on helping individuals and families impacted by serious accidents. With offices in Charlotte, they are available to help victims throughout North Carolina, including the Old Fort area.

Dump truck accidents are unique. They often involve commercial vehicles, regulatory compliance issues, and complex liability matters. That’s why having a legal team that knows how to deal with these specific challenges can make a big difference in how a case moves forward. Whether you're the injured party or a family member of someone who was killed in a crash, Rosensteel Fleishman can walk you through the process of filing a claim, handling insurance negotiations, and seeking appropriate compensation.

The law firm offers free consultations, so there's no cost to speak with someone and find out what legal options might be available. If you're dealing with the aftermath of a dump truck accident in Old Fort or anywhere in North Carolina, getting in touch with a firm like Rosensteel Fleishman is a good first step. To start the conversation, just call 1-704-714-1450.

Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Old Fort Dump Truck Accident Case

Working with a North Carolina law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman ensures that you're getting help from people who know the specific laws and regulations that affect your case. Dump truck accidents often involve state and federal trucking regulations, which can be difficult for the average person to interpret or use in their favor.

An experienced legal team can investigate the accident fully, collect important evidence such as brake failure records or trucking company maintenance logs, and determine whether other parties besides the driver could be responsible. These steps are essential when pursuing justice in cases like the Old Fort crash, where mechanical failure played a central role.

Victims and their families often need guidance not just with legal matters, but also in dealing with insurance companies and medical providers. Rosensteel Fleishman can assist with coordinating medical records, dealing with adjusters, and helping families understand what compensation they may be entitled to.

What Does an Old Fort Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?

A dump truck accident lawyer in Old Fort can help from the very beginning by taking over communication with insurance companies and investigators. This lets families focus on their healing while the legal work gets done behind the scenes. Lawyers will also gather evidence like accident reports, eyewitness statements, and expert opinions that can support your case.

In wrongful death situations, attorneys play a key role in helping surviving family members file claims for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. These cases can be emotionally heavy, and having someone knowledgeable and steady on your side can make a difficult time feel more manageable.

By hiring a dump truck accident attorney in Old Fort, NC, you can ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They can guide you on timelines, paperwork, and even court proceedings if needed.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Dump Truck Accident in Old Fort, NC

Even when it's clear that another party was at fault—like a trucking company that failed to maintain its vehicles—it can still be hard to secure the compensation you deserve. A personal injury attorney will fight to make sure you're not shortchanged by insurance companies trying to minimize payouts.

They can also determine if workers compensation benefits apply, especially if the injured person was on the job at the time. In the case of someone like Ralph Hibbert, who was hauling ballast material, there may be avenues through employer-related insurance or third-party claims that need to be considered.

The right legal support helps ensure that victims and their families are not left handling bills, stress, and loss on their own. A dump truck accident law firm in North Carolina like Rosensteel Fleishman can be the resource families need during some of the hardest times.

How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Help After the Old Fort Dump Truck Accident

The crash that killed Ralph Hibbert in Old Fort left more than just a scene of destruction—it left a grieving family, unanswered questions, and the need for support. These moments are when having a trusted legal team can make all the difference. Rosensteel Fleishman understands the layers of pain and confusion that follow a deadly truck accident. They help families explore wrongful death claims, which can offer some form of financial accountability for what was lost.

In accidents like this, where brake failure is involved and construction zones are impacted, multiple parties could hold some responsibility. Sorting that out takes time, resources, and experience. That’s where a firm like Rosensteel Fleishman steps in. They handle the details so families can focus on what matters most: healing and honoring their loved ones.

They also help navigate workers compensation benefits when someone dies while hauling materials for a company, even if they weren’t a direct employee. This is especially important in cases like Hibbert’s, where a trucking company or third-party contractor may be involved. From accident scene investigations to filing claims and advocating in court if needed, the firm makes sure their clients are not alone in the fight for justice.

Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina

When you're facing the aftermath of a dump truck accident or wrongful death, choosing the right law firm can take a huge weight off your shoulders. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers is based in Charlotte but helps people all across North Carolina, including in communities like Old Fort. Their work focuses on helping individuals through some of the hardest days of their lives after serious accidents, whether it’s a truck crash, a workers comp case, or a wrongful death claim.

One of the firm’s founding attorneys, Corey Rosensteel, said, “We’ve worked with clients from all over North Carolina who are just trying to make sense of what happened. Our job is to step in and take care of the legal side so they can take care of themselves and their families.” That focus is exactly what sets the team apart—they handle the legal burdens while clients concentrate on recovery.

The law firm is known for its straightforward, helpful communication and its ability to take on cases big and small with care. Whether you live in Charlotte or in towns like Old Fort, this team is just a phone call away. They’ll listen, explain your rights, and guide you on what steps to take next.

Call Now to Speak With a North Carolina Injury Attorney You Can Trust

If you or someone in your family was involved in a dump truck accident in Old Fort or anywhere in North Carolina, don’t wait to get legal help. Rosensteel Fleishman makes it easy to get started with a free consultation. There’s no pressure, no commitment, and no confusing legal talk—just real people ready to help.

The firm handles a wide range of accident and injury cases, including those involving commercial trucks, wrongful death, and workers compensation. Whether you’re dealing with hospital bills, lost income, or just want to understand your options, talking with a lawyer can give you some much-needed direction.

Call Rosensteel Fleishman at 1-704-714-1450 to get answers today. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can start moving forward with confidence.