Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles used to transport goods across the country are necessary to the nation’s economy. Most of the time, truck drivers spend their time on highways, bringing goods from one side of the country to the other. These highways with long straightaways, several lanes, and wide shoulders were designed to accommodate large trucks. Of course, Maryland truck accidents still occur on highways across the state.
As truck drivers approach their final destination, however, it is likely that they will need to navigate smaller roads that were not designed for large trucks. These roads may present truck drivers with several difficulties, including limited room to turn, reduced visibility, and crowds of people both in the form of other motorists as well as those on bicycles and on foot.
While driving a large truck on a small city street may be challenging, truck drivers are still held to the same high standard as though they were driving on the open road. This includes refraining from drinking or taking drugs while on the road, following traffic laws and all posted signs, and also maintaining the required amount of rest between trips. When truck drivers fail to take the necessary precautions while driving, and they cause an accident injuring one or more people, they may be held responsible through a Maryland truck accident lawsuit.
Truck Accident Claims Pedestrian’s Life
Earlier this month, a pedestrian was killed when they were struck by a semi-truck while crossing a Sacramento street. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the truck driver was traveling on a surface street at around 4:30 in the morning when he realized he hit something. He checked his mirrors and saw a shopping cart next to the truck. The driver stopped his rig, exited the vehicle, and then realized that he had hit someone.
The truck driver called 911 to report the accident and remained at the scene, cooperating with investigators. Police told reporters that they do not believe drugs or alcohol to be among the causes of the fatal pedestrian accident. However, the fact that the accident occurred in the early morning hours raises the potential issue of whether fatigued driving may have played a role. The investigation is still underway.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been a victim of a Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The skilled Maryland personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience assisting victims with holding at-fault drivers responsible for their actions. To learn more about Maryland truck accident cases, and to speak with an attorney about your case, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation. Calling is risk-free, since we will not bill you for our time or services unless we can assist you in recovering compensation for your injuries.
More Blog Posts:
Slowed Highway Traffic Creates Major Hazard for Sleepy or Distracted Bus Drivers, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published July 12, 2017.
The Dangers of Maryland Dirt Roads, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published August 3, 2017.