Investigation Underway After Semi-Truck Struck and Killed Cyclist on Roseville Road by Longview Drive
NORTH HIGHLANDS, CALIFORNIA (January 27, 2025) – A bicyclist has tragically died in a North Highlands semi truck accident on Roseville Road at Longview Drive.
Sacramento County officials are saying that the accident took place around Thursday afternoon. A woman in her 50s was riding a bicycle when she was struck by a semi truck making a right turn in the roadway.
Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the woman. Despite life-saving measures, she later died due to her injuries.
The semi truck driver involved in the collision remained at the scene and cooperated with police. A full investigation into the North Highlands semi truck accident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for North Highlands Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-trucks account for a relatively small portion of the total number of vehicles on the roadway. But they are involved in a disproportionately high number of fatal collisions. Bicyclists are uniquely vulnerable in collisions. According to the IIHS, “A total of 1,084 bicyclists were killed in crashes with motor vehicles in 2022, the highest number ever recorded. Bicyclist deaths have increased 8% since 1975, and have increased 75% since reaching their lowest point in 2010.” Semi-truck drivers should take a number of steps in order to avoid hitting bicyclists.
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- Semi-truck drivers should check their blind spots before making turns in the roadway.
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- Semi-truck drivers should slow down during periods of inclement weather.
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- Semi-truck drivers should be well rested before heading out onto the road.
All truck drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting bicyclists. Many collisions are due to drivers that are speeding. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 22350, no person shall operate a vehicle on the roadway greater than would be reasonable and safe given the prevailing conditions of the road. If a truck driver fails to slow down to avoid hitting a bicyclist or pedestrian, this could form the basis of a civil claim.
Liability for a truck collision could extend beyond any driver. The company that a truck driver worked for could also potentially be held at fault. In general, companies are responsible for the negligent actions of their employees who are working within their job duties. However, truck companies will often try to hire their drivers as independent contractors to avoid vicarious liability for collisions. Several pieces of evidence should be collected after any fatal bicycle collision involving a truck.
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- The event data recorder for the truck involved should be examined.
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- Surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras should be reviewed.
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- The logbook for the truck driver involved should be scrutinized.
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- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
The vast majority of truck accidents involving bicycles are preventable. Collisions are much more likely to involve drivers with less experience. In many situations, truck drivers may fail to check their blind spots or adhere to local traffic regulations. Trucks are usually required to travel at a slower speed than other passenger vehicles. The family of any person who is killed due to the negligent actions of a truck driver may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim.
Investigating California Semi-Truck Accidents
We at Samer Habbas & Associates PC extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman who died in this North Highlands truck accident. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the California Highway Patrol. There are so many questions about what happened that still remain unanswered.
Do you need more information about a North Highlands semi truck accident? Our team of roadway safety advocates is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that truck companies are doing everything in their power to avoid causing accidents. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular incident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 949-771-8653
