Large trucks and tractor trailers are an essential part of the economy and perform important functions in towns and cities that smaller vehicles are not equipped to carry out. However, these large vehicles also pose several different risks to others on the roadway, including the drivers of other motor vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians. The weight, size and limited visibility creates a greater risk that a truck accident will occur and if it does, the damages are often more severe.
A recent accident involving a large dump truck and a 56-year-old pedestrian resulted in the death of the male pedestrian. The accident occurred on a Monday afternoon when the dump truck was backing up. The truck hit the man while backing, requiring the man to be taken to a local hospital. However, he was pronounced dead upon arriving at the hospital. At this point, the driver of the truck has not been charged with anything nor has he received any citations, but the investigation by the Lafayette Police Department Traffic Unit is ongoing.
This story illustrates one of the reasons that large trucks are dangerous: limited visibility. It is often difficult for the driver of a truck to see who or what is around him or her on all sides and this lack of visibility can result in an accident involving pedestrians, bicyclists or other vehicles. Drivers of these large vehicles should take extra precautions to be sure that the area around them is clear before backing up or changing lanes, but this does not always happen. Many drivers are rushing to deliver a load on time or are otherwise distracted and may take actions that are reckless or negligent.
Because the damage and injury caused by a truck accident can be severe, often including death, it is important for victims and their families to collect as much information as possible about the determined causes of the accident in case they decide to file a lawsuit against the driver. Liability can extend beyond the driver to the owner of the truck or the trucking company in many situations, as well. While insurance coverage will often provide some compensation for the damages and injuries suffered in an accident, it may not be adequate. Additionally, it may not address the pain and suffering the accident caused. Filing a lawsuit can be a powerful way to recover financial losses, as well as send a message to those responsible that safety is paramount.
Source: KPLCTV.com, “Lafayette Police investigating fatal accident involving pedestrian,” Anne Robicheaux, Aug. 26, 2014