Earlier this month in California, a man was killed when he was run over by a semi-truck driver. According to one local news source covering the tragic accident, the victim, who is believed to have been homeless, took shelter under the truck to escape the rain. At the time the man crawled under the truck, no one was in the cab, so he left his wheelchair next to the truck and took shelter. However, the driver of the truck returned after a short time.
When the driver returned from running errands, he got into the cab of the truck and pulled off. He immediately realized what had happened and turned the truck around. He later explained to police that he didn’t see the man under the truck. While the article does not discuss whether the truck driver conducted a pre-trip vehicle check before pulling away, it is likely he did not because had he performed a check, it is likely he would have seen the man under the truck.
At the time of the article’s publication, the accident was still under investigation, and no citations had been issued.
A Truck Driver’s Duty to Ensure a Safe Rig at All Times
Semi-trucks can be extremely dangerous vehicles, especially if they are not properly maintained. Therefore, during their required training, truck drivers learn that each time they get into the truck after taking more than a momentary break, the driver should conduct a pre-trip inspection to make sure that all exterior mechanical systems are in safe working order. Usually, this involves a quick walk around the truck to make sure that everything looks fine. Through this type of check, a driver will be able to determine if there is a problem with the exterior of the truck, if the truck’s tires are dangerously low, or if someone or something is too close to the truck.
When a truck driver fails to conduct a pre-trip check or is otherwise negligent, and someone is injured as a result, the driver may be held responsible for any injuries caused by the driver’s negligence. It is important for Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. accident victims to keep in mind, however, that the law in these jurisdictions prevents an at-fault plaintiff from recovering compensation for their injuries. Therefore, the assistance of a dedicated truck accident attorney is crucial to help ensure that everything is done to preserve an accident victim’s right to recovery.
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 personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at the Maryland law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have ample experience handling all kinds of personal injury cases across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case. Calling is free and will not result in any obligation on your part unless we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Weather-Related Truck Accident Involves 53 Vehicles, Claims Three Lives, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published December 19, 2016.
Semi-Truck Drivers and the Responsibility They Owe to the Public, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 4, 2017.