A pedestrian suffered serious injuries after being struck by a semi-truck with a trailer at the intersection of Kirk Road and East Wilson Street on Tuesday evening. Officials report that the pedestrian was conscious at the scene and was transported to a local hospital in stable condition. Authorities have not released details on how the crash occurred, but they confirmed that the truck driver is cooperating with the investigation.
For me, crashes like this raise questions about how the semi navigated the intersection. In areas with pedestrian traffic, semi-trucks present a huge risk.
Did the Semi-Truck Driver Yield Appropriately?
Investigators will need to determine whether the truck driver took proper precautions when approaching the intersection. Large trucks require more time and distance to stop, so investigators will likely assess whether the driver was traveling at a safe speed and whether they had enough time to react. The truck’s positioning at the moment of impact will also be key in understanding how the pedestrian was hit.
Was the Truck’s Visibility Equipment Functioning?
Commercial trucks are equipped with large mirrors and, in some cases, additional cameras or warning systems to help drivers monitor blind spots. Investigators should determine whether the truck’s visibility features were functioning correctly and whether the driver used them. If the truck was turning at the time of the crash, investigators will also need to examine whether the driver checked for pedestrians before proceeding.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
Investigators will likely review surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras or businesses to establish the sequence of events leading up to the crash. The semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data can also provide insight into whether the driver applied the brakes, was maintaining an appropriate speed, or took evasive action before the impact. Authorities may want to check the semi driver’s cell phone data to see if distraction is a potential factor.
Why Understanding the Full Scope of a Crash Is Important
Crashes involving pedestrians and semi-trucks demand careful investigation due to the severe risks these accidents pose. In my experience as a truck accident attorney, I’ve found that a closer look at the crash usually reveals more details about the cause that are sometimes overlooked.