Recently, a young bicyclist was struck and killed in an 18-wheeler accident in neighboring Boston, Massachusetts. The 23-year old was killed in the truck accident when the semi truck was making a right turn and collided with the bicyclist. The truck accident is currently being investigated, according to the police. The semi-truck accident is the second bicycle accident to occur in two weeks in the area, and comes on the same day that a hearing on the issue was scheduled at city hall.
Truck accidents can be more serious than regular automobile accidents due to their size and weight disparity when compared with other methods of transportation. Because of this, any collision with a semi truck is more likely to cause serious, or even fatal, injuries.
Turning accidents are one of the most common types of 18-wheeler accident that occur. Semi trucks are longer than average vehicles and this can present challenges for a semi truck drivers attempting a turning maneuver. Oftentimes, this will require the driver to use two lanes of traffic, especially in urban areas, to avoid striking parked vehicles, sidewalks or other objects along the roadway. Although it is not automatically considered negligence, some courts have held that turning from an inside lane or occupying two lanes to turn is evidence of truck-driver liability in an accident.
When a loved one is lost in a truck accident, surviving loved ones can, in certain circumstances, pursue a claim against several potential defendants, including drivers, trucking companies, contractors and insurance companies for wrongful death. Compensation for lost earnings and pain and suffering damages may be available.
During a difficult time, this can help ease the burden of costs associated with the loss of a loved one. Understanding potential forms of compensation may provide some peace of mind.
Source: Fenmore-KenwayPatch.com, “Bicyclist Killed in Accident on Comm. Ave Thursday Morning,” Sara Jacobi, Dec. 6, 2012.
