A 77-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by a delivery truck while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk in Hammond, Indiana. According to police, the crash occurred around 8 a.m. when the truck, which had a green light, turned south onto Columbia Avenue from Chicago Avenue and hit the pedestrian. The victim later died from his injuries.
The truck driver was arrested, though authorities have not yet disclosed what charges they may face. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
Whenever I hear about a commercial vehicle striking a pedestrian, I think about whether the driver was distracted, fatigued, or failed to check their surroundings before making the turn. Pedestrians in crosswalks have the right of way, so commercial drivers must be especially vigilant when making turns in high-traffic areas.
Did Driver Inattention Play a Role?
One key question is whether the delivery truck driver was paying full attention to the roadway while making the turn. Investigators should review in-cab camera footage, witness statements, and cell phone records to determine if the driver was distracted at the time of the crash. Even a momentary lapse in attention could prevent a driver from noticing a pedestrian in the crosswalk.
Did the Driver Fail to Check Their Blind Spots?
Large commercial vehicles often have significant blind spots, especially when making turns. If the truck lacked proper mirrors, side cameras, or warning sensors, the driver may not have seen the pedestrian until it was too late. Investigators should examine the truck’s visibility equipment to determine whether it was working properly. Additionally, if the driver didn’t use this equipment to check their blind spots, that could be a major factor.
Evidence That Could Be Examined
To fully understand what happened, investigators should analyze surveillance footage, traffic light data, and the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data to determine vehicle speed, braking actions, and turn execution. Additionally, reviewing driver records and prior traffic violations could help determine whether the driver had a history of unsafe driving.
Why a Detailed Investigation Is Important
Collisions involving commercial delivery trucks and pedestrians are often preventable when drivers take the necessary precautions. Understanding whether driver distraction, blind spots, or a failure to yield contributed to this crash is critical for ensuring accountability. In my experience, these investigations often reveal important details that may not be immediately obvious but are crucial in understanding the full picture.