When we discuss trucking accidents, the majority of the time it’s about tractor-trailers and semis colliding with cars. But there are other trucks on the road that can cause a potential hazard for passenger cars, pedestrians and bicyclists: delivery trucks. They are usually tasked with navigating tight city streets and have a duty to practice safe driving procedures at all times. When they don’t, their sheer size can do catastrophic damage.
It is likely that the family of a 20-year-old man learned this the hard way when their son was hit and killed by a delivery truck. He was bicycling at the time and was coming to a turn-in at a museum facility. The driver of the truck was pulling into the museum and struck the bicyclist. He was rushed to an area hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
Police have cited the driver of the delivery truck for not giving the bicyclist the right of way. So, are these charges the end of this case for the family? Not necessarily. The civil courts exist to give the families of victims justice when a loved one is taken from them, especially when negligence was the cause. How, then, do you go about determining whether there was negligence and, if so, who was at fault?
A Louisiana attorney can conduct his or her own investigation into the crash and should know all the relevant questions to ask. Were there any witnesses that may have been overlooked? Did the driver see the bicyclist and assume he was going to stop? Did the company that owns the truck and employs the driver provide sufficient safety training? Were the truck’s mirrors properly installed and positioned? Were there any other obstructions that may have blocked the driver’s view?
If you’ve been negatively affected by a delivery truck, you may be able to receive compensation for lost wages, medical expenses and funeral costs.
Source: wtsp.com, “Sarasota Ballet dancer killed in bicycle crash,” June 5, 2014
