Stockton Pedestrians in Truck Accidents
When people think about commercial truck or semi-truck accidents, they usually think about multi-vehicle accidents on the interstate. However, accidents involving large trucks can happen anywhere, including on Stockton’s city streets.
When an 18-wheeler strikes a pedestrian, the injuries are typically life-threatening. According to the NHTSA, 11 percent of the fatalities in large truck accidents in 2016 were nonoccupants (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, etc.). From 2015 to 2016, there was a 13 percent increase in the number of nonoccupants killed in large truck accidents. The number of nonoccupants killed in 2016 was the highest number of nonoccupant truck accident deaths in the past ten years.
Even in a slow-speed truck accident, a pedestrian can be seriously or fatally injured. Large trucks have huge blind spots, and the height can be a disadvantage when trying to look for pedestrians. Therefore, pedestrians need to be very cautious when crossing the road. When walking or crossing the road, pedestrians should avoid distractions such as cell phones and other electronics. Always look every way to ensure that it is safe to cross the street before stepping into the roadway.
Semi-Trucks are Not the Only Commercial Vehicle That Can Be Dangerous for Pedestrians
When you think about large truck accidents, you probably assume they involve 18-wheelers, semi-trucks or tractor-trailers. However, commercial vehicles come in numerous sizes and shapes. Pedestrians come into close proximity to commercial vehicles each day. Some trucks that can be involved in a pedestrian accident include:
- Dump trucks or other construction equipment
- Garbage trucks or recycling trucks
- FedEx and UPS delivery trucks
- Emergency vehicles and fire trucks
- Moving trucks
- Oversized local delivery vehicles
Any of these large vehicles can cause an accident. Larger vehicles can be difficult to maneuver along smaller, city streets and through Stockton neighborhoods. Drivers must use extreme care when driving through neighborhoods and along city streets to avoid striking a pedestrian. It only takes a moment of distraction or a lapse in judgment to cause a tragic accident.
Injuries and Damages in Truck Accidents Involving Pedestrians
Larger vehicles striking a pedestrian often cause severe and life-threatening injuries. The injuries may cause permanent disabilities or impairments. Common injuries sustained in truck-pedestrian collisions include:
- Brain and head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis
- Neck and back injuries
- Multiple broken bones and complex fractures
- Internal organ damage or internal bleeding
- Scarring and disfigurement
Depending on the circumstances of the accident, victims are entitled to seek several types of damages. Most claims include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and physical pain. In some cases, a pedestrian hit by a truck may be entitled to compensation for future damages. Working with an experienced Stockton pedestrian accident attorney can help ensure that all damages are included in the settlement demand.
Discuss Your Injuries with a Stockton Truck Accident Attorney
If you have been hit by a truck, our pedestrian accident attorneys can help you file a claim against the truck driver, truck owner, and other parties who might have joint liability for the accident.
Call Torem & Associates at (888) 500-5000or use the contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a Stockton personal injury lawyer.
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