Tractor-Trailer Driver Convicted of Manslaughter for Fatal Crash

Oct 04,2018

The tractor-trailer driver responsible for a 2014 fatal crash near the Fort Irwin National Training Center was convicted of involuntary manslaughter Tuesday. The driver, 51-year-old Steven Kilty, faces a maximum of eight years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for January 7, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The fatal crash occurred on June 1, 2014. Kilty had pulled his tractor-trailer into the right lane of Fort Irwin Road, while he was waiting to make a delivery at the base. According to prosecutors, Kilty turned off the truck’s lights and went to sleep in the berth of the truck. He did not put out any safety reflectors or turn on the truck’s hazard lights.

Just after 5 a.m., a Victor Valley Transit Authority bus crashed into the rear of the parked tractor-trailer. Dail Keiper Sr., a 62-year-old Barstow man, was killed in the crash. Seven other passengers were seriously injured. Keiper’s wife and son filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Kilty, VVTA and other parties related to the tractor-trailer operations. That suit was stayed, pending the outcome of the criminal case.

“This verdict shows the serious consequences that can result when truck drivers participate in unsafe practices,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a truck accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.