A 65-year-old bicyclist was struck and killed by an 18-wheeler Monday evening at the intersection of St. Claude and Franklin Avenue in New Orleans. According to police, the semi-truck driver allegedly made a complete stop before turning right onto Franklin Avenue, where the collision occurred.
Whenever a semi-truck collides with a bicyclist, it raises serious questions about whether proper safety precautions were in place.
Was the Truck Driver Aware of the Cyclist’s Location?
Investigators will need to determine whether the truck driver saw the bicyclist before initiating the turn. In urban environments, it’s critical for truck drivers to actively check all mirrors and blind spots, especially before making turns across bike lanes or shoulders where cyclists may be traveling. If the cyclist was in a designated bike lane or riding near the shoulder, questions may arise about whether the driver properly yielded before executing the right turn.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Been a Factor?
This crash occurred around 5 p.m., during a time of day when both distraction and fatigue may play a role. Investigators may review the driver’s hours-of-service logs and any in-cab devices to see if distraction, inattention, or diminished alertness contributed to the failure to detect the cyclist.
Did the Truck Have Adequate Visibility Equipment?
Given the known visibility limitations of semi-trucks, particularly on the right side, investigators may examine whether the truck was outfitted with additional mirrors or sensors that could help reduce blind spots. In some cities, commercial vehicles operating in dense areas are required or encouraged to use such equipment to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
What Information Is Needed to Understand What Happened?
A thorough review should include dashcam footage, GPS and Engine Control Module (ECM) data, surveillance video from nearby businesses or traffic cameras, and eyewitness statements. Investigators should also document the positions of the truck and bicycle at the time of impact, any relevant markings on the roadway, and whether the cyclist had a green signal or was in a designated lane.
Why Getting the Full Picture Requires Investigation
In crashes like this, it’s not enough to rely on surface-level assumptions. Even when a driver stops before turning, it’s critical to verify that all precautions were taken to ensure the area was clear. A complete investigation helps determine whether driver inattention, fatigue, or lack of proper equipment played a role and ensures that those affected receive clear answers about what happened.