In 2018, there were 4,136 people who died in truck accidents, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Truck accidents can be serious because of the size and weight of the vehicles involved. These accidents can also result in life-threatening injuries.
If you were injured in a cargo truck accident, a Pickerington cargo truck accident lawyer from Bressman Law can discuss your legal rights and options. Call our team today at (614) 538-1116 to learn more.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Your lawyer will need to review the evidence in your case to determine the cause of your accident. This will give them an idea of who can be held accountable for your losses.
Some of the most common factors that contribute to these collisions include:
For a free legal consultation with a cargo truck accident attorney in Pickerington, call (614) 538-1116
Speeding
Cargo truck companies usually get paid by the load, so there may be a built-in incentive for drivers to rush their deliveries. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that semi-trucks may take 20% to 40% more distance to come to a complete stop than passenger vehicles. The faster the truck is going, the more time it will need to come to a complete stop. Speeding cargo trucks may not have enough time to stop once they recognize a hazard in front of them.
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Driver Impairment
Truck drivers who consume illicit drugs, alcohol, or over-the-counter medications may place other motorists at risk of harm. Impairment can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles and increase the likelihood of risky behavior.
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Fatigued Driving
Fatigued driving mirrors some of the behaviors associated with drunk driving, such as speeding, difficulty staying in one’s lane, and abrupt braking. Despite the known dangers of fatigued driving, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) still allows truck drivers to drive up to 14 hours in a single stretch, which may make them more likely to be drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel.
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Driver Error
Driving a large truck is difficult. Drivers may make errors due to inexperience, lack of training, fatigue, impairment, or other factors.
These errors may include:
- Following too closely
- Not monitoring blind spots
- Making turns that are too wide
- Failing to obey traffic rules
- Not adjusting speed for road or weather conditions
This is a non-exhaustive list.
Inclement Weather Conditions
Truck drivers are expected to make their deliveries on time, whether it is sunny, snowing, or raining. When truck drivers go out in less than ideal conditions, they should be prepared to adjust their speed and driving behavior to these conditions. Not doing so may constitute negligence.
Cargo Loading Errors
Cargo that is not secured correctly can cause trucks to jackknife or for cargo to fall onto the roadway.
Employer Negligence
Federal regulations require commercial trucking companies to vet drivers before hiring them. They must also conduct drug testing when required.
Examples of employer negligence that can result in accidents include:
- Failing to properly train drivers
- Imposing unrealistic deadlines on truck drivers
- Allowing drivers to violate the FMCSA’s hours of service regulations
Again, this is a non-exhaustive list.
Negligent Maintenance
Trucking companies are required to inspect, repair, and maintain vehicles on a regular basis. Trucking companies that fail to meet these requirements may be found liable in the event of an accident.
Other maintenance problems that can cause accidents include:
- Powertrain failures
- Steering issues
- Transmission problems
- Suspension problems
- Defective lights
- Defective design
A Pickerington cargo truck accident lawyer can investigate your claim and determine the underlying causes of your accident. You can call Bressman Law today to learn more.
Parties Who May Be Liable for Truck Accidents
Multiple parties could be held financially accountable for your losses. Your lawyer will review your case and determine who should pay for your damages.
Some parties that could be responsible for your truck accident include:
- The trucking company
- The truck’s driver
- The truck’s manufacturer
- The cargo loading company
- The maintenance company
You can get in touch with Bressman Law by dialing (614) 538-1116.
Common Types of Injuries Involved in Truck Accidents
Some of the most common types of injuries that people suffer in truck accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Truck accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries that can negatively impact victims’ lives. Motor vehicle collisions are one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Back and Neck Injuries
By being seated at the time of the collision, your back and neck may have taken the major brunt of the impact. As a result, you may suffer from various neck and back injuries, such as dislocated discs or fractures.
Spinal Cord Injuries
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for approximately 17,000 new spinal cord injuries each year. Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or total paralysis, which may require lifelong care.
Internal Injuries
Even if you do not believe that you were injured, you may have suffered a serious internal injury, such as internal bleeding or damage to one of your organs. If you have been involved in a truck accident, you should consult with a doctor regarding your condition. You do not want to take any risks when it comes to your health.
Contact Us for Help with Your Cargo Truck Accident Claim
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, a Pickerington cargo truck accident lawyer from Bressman Law is here to help. We will conduct a thorough investigation into your claim, identify all potentially liable parties, and fight for fair compensation. We offer a free consultation to review the circumstances of your claim. We also do not charge our attorney’s fees unless we win your case.
Get started by calling (614) 538-1116.
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