In a discussion with socialbites.ca, criminal lawyer Maxim Kalinov analyzed the case involving a KAMAZ truck that led to the deaths of two cyclists in the Leningrad region. Kalinov suggested that the driver could face a prison term of up to seven years if convicted under current law.
Kalinov emphasized that pursuing criminal liability for the person who arranged the transport of the heavy vehicle is unlikely to result in significant charges. He explained that the primary responsibility would most likely rest with the truck driver, given that preliminary findings indicate the driver violated traffic rules that contributed to the fatalities. The investigation will determine whether any aspects of the vehicle, maintenance issues, or other factors connected to the trip organizer played a role, but Kalinov noted such scenarios are rare and usually involve isolated circumstances.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 in the morning in the Vyborgsky district of the Leningrad region, along the 59th kilometer of the Scandinavian highway. A 31-year-old truck driver was at the wheel. The collision resulted in the deaths of two female students at the scene, while seven athletes and their coaches sustained injuries. A criminal case has been opened in connection with the accident.
The tragedy has been acknowledged by authorities as a fatal accident involving cyclists in the Leningrad region, prompting ongoing investigations to determine all contributory factors and assign accountability where appropriate.