Truck accidents are unfortunately all too common on our roads and highways. In fact, according to the national highway traffic safety administration (NHTSA), large trucks were involved in 4,761 fatal crashes in the United States in 2017 alone. This figure represents a 9% increase from the year before.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can have several causes, but some are more common than others.
- Speeding
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Poorly maintained trucks
- Inexperienced drivers
- Inclement weather conditions
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences. They can cause serious injuries or sometimes even death. Seeking legal counsel if you are involved in a truck accident is essential.
Why Are Truck Accidents Considered To Be More Dangerous Than Other Vehicles?
Most truck accidents are not caused by mechanical failures or bad weather. They’re caused by human error. In fact, the vast majority of truck accidents are preventable. But when they do happen, they can be extremely dangerous – even deadly.
Several reasons why truck accidents are so dangerous.
- First, trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. This means they have more momentum and are more likely to cause serious damage when colliding with another vehicle.
- Second, trucks have large blind spots. This means the driver may not be able to see other vehicles around them, which can lead to accidents.
- Third, truck drivers often work long hours and may be fatigued. This can make it difficult for them to focus on the road and make split-second decisions.
- Finally, many truck accidents are caused by speeding. When a truck is going too fast, it’s much harder for the driver to stop or swerve out of the way if another vehicle cuts them off.
Truck accidents can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries. It’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s always best to get checked out by a doctor.
Common Injuries Sustained in a Truck Accident
A number of injuries can be sustained in a truck accident. Some common ones include broken bones, soft tissue damage, whiplash, and head or neck injuries. In more serious cases, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or spinal cord injuries can occur. These injuries could lead to long-term or even permanent disability.
- Broken bones are one of the most common injuries in a truck accident. Common bones broken in a truck accident include the ribs, arm, and leg bones.
- Soft tissue damage is another common injury in a truck accident. This can occur when the muscles, tendons, and ligaments are stretched or torn. Whiplash is soft tissue damage that can occur when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward. This can cause severe neck pain and stiffness.
- Head and neck injuries are also common in truck accidents. These injuries can be from minor cuts and bruises to more serious concussions or traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, the force of the collision can cause the head to hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or window, which can lead to serious injury.
- Spinal cord injuries are another severe type of injury that can occur in a truck accident. These types of injuries can cause paralysis, either partial or complete. In some cases, the paralysis may be temporary, but in others, it can be permanent.
Even though you do not think you are seriously injured, it is always better to be safe than sorry. It is therefore advised to get medical attention. Truck accident attorneys can help you recover damages for your injuries, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Who Can Be Sue in a Truck Accident Case?
The first and most obvious is always the truck driver. If the truck driver was negligent, which led to the accident, then you may be able to sue them. You may be able to sue a few different parties if you’re involved in a truck accident.
You can also have the option to sue the trucking company that the driver was working for. In case the company was negligent in hiring or training the driver, or if they could not maintain the truck properly, they may be liable for the accident.
In some cases, you may also sue the manufacturer of the truck or its parts. If there was a defect in the truck that led to the accident, then the manufacturer may be held liable. Finally, you may be able to sue your own insurance company if they deny your claim or don’t pay enough to cover your damages.
Each case is different, so it’s important to talk to an experienced attorney to see who you may be able to sue in your specific case.
Is It Worth Hiring a Professional Personal Injury Lawyer After Truck Accidents?
Many professional personal injury attorneys offer a free initial consultation, so speaking with one about your case will not cost anything. After the consultation, if you decide to hire a lawyer, they will usually take your case on a contingency basis. This means they will not charge fees unless they can recover compensation for you.
There are many benefits to hiring a personal injury lawyer after a truck accident. The lawyer will be able to handle all of the legal aspects of your case so that you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery. The lawyer will also have a network of experts who can help them build a strong case on your behalf. And, if you do receive a settlement or verdict in your favor, the lawyer will take a percentage of the compensation as a fee.
Suppose you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, and you are unsure about what to do, or you are not getting the compensation you deserve. In that case, it is always best to speak with truck accident lawyers at Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer to get legal assistance.
