Large trucks are necessary to a city’s economy. They bring goods into the hearts of all of the nation’s largest cities, including Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. However, the small city streets in these cities are not necessarily designed to accommodate large trucks, some of which can be upwards of 70 feet long. This is especially the case in Maryland, where some streets were planned hundreds of years ago. Adding to the danger is that in many urban areas, there are large numbers of bicyclists and pedestrians who share the roadway with these large trucks.
Notwithstanding the potential difficulties of operating a large truck in an urban environment, the duty to safely operate the truck always lies with the truck’s operator. It is incumbent upon truck drivers to make sure they follow all posted traffic signs. In some cases involving negligent hiring or the absence of necessary safety equipment, liability may also extend to the trucking company. For example, if a trucking company hires a driver with a checkered driving history, and that driver then goes on to cause a fatal accident, the injured party may be able to argue that the company was negligent in vetting the driver before hiring him.
In Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., people injured in serious truck accidents have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit, seeking compensation for their injuries. In cases in which a truck accident results in a fatality, the victim’s surviving loved ones can bring a wrongful death case against the responsible parties, seeking compensation for the loss of their loved one. In either case, the assistance of a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney is critical to a case’s success.
Box Truck Hits and Kills Bicyclist
Earlier this month in Indianapolis, a bicyclist was fatally struck by a box truck in the city’s south side. According to one local news report covering the tragedy, the accident occurred in the morning hours in a known high-traffic area.
Police are still in the midst of their investigation and initially told reporters that they are not certain how the accident occurred. However, they did emphasize the importance of always following the posted speed limits and keeping an eye out for bicyclists on city streets. The driver of the box truck remained on the scene and cooperated with investigators. Police say that it is doubtful any criminal conduct was involved.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been a victim of a truck driver’s negligent driving, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through a Maryland truck accident lawsuit. Truck drivers, their employers, and the companies that insure them are well-versed in defending against lawsuits, so it is critical that you have an experienced attorney on your side. Call 410-654-3600 to speak with a personal injury attorney at the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen. With decades of experience holding negligent truck drivers responsible, we know what it takes to succeed on our clients’ behalf.
More Blog Posts:
The Dangers of Large Trucks on City Roads, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published October 5, 2016.
Court Interprets “Good Samaritan Law” Broadly in Truck Accident Case, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published September 21, 2016.