Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Any motor vehicle accident can be life-changing, especially if you’re in a collision with a semi-truck. Although semi-trucks are involved in a lower rate of accidents than cars traveling for leisure, they still account for thousands of accidents each year.
Truck accidents happen for a number of reasons, and the size of a semi-truck alone leaves the accident victim at a disadvantage. The impact of these crashes often leads to catastrophic injuries with many leading to fatalities. If you or a loved one have been injured in a crash with a large truck, the attorneys at Lopez & Humphries, PA can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Speeding
In any situation, high speeds can increase your chances of being involved in an accident. Commercial drivers are often on strict schedules mandating that they reach their destination at a certain time.
Delays due to weather, road conditions, and unforeseen traffic delays put added pressure on a driver to make up time by exceeding the speed limit. If they fail to follow the speed limit, they risk losing control and causing a truck accident.
Driver Fatigue
Anyone who’s on the road for a long amount of time is subject to fatigue. There are federal and state regulations mandating the maximum times drivers may be on the road. The hours of service regulations state that truck drivers must drive no longer than eleven hours at a time.
Breaks are mandated as well as time off between shifts. Failure to comply leads to thousands of injuries each year.
Distracted Driving
Everyone is subject to distracted driving, but when your vehicle outweighs all cars around you it is increasingly dangerous.
A cell phone is one of the most common culprits. However, distractions can also be caused by changing the radio station, eating and drinking, or any other activity that makes you take your eyes off the road for even a second. Your injury lawyer can help you determine what the other driver was doing and your best options for compensation.
Improper Maintenance
There are federal regulations in place that require semi-trucks be maintained in good running condition. Large trucks involve complicated mechanics and any failure in their operation may contribute to a serious crash. Tires also need to be intact and fully functional.
Driver Error
To operate a semi-truck you not only need a specialized license, but you also need specific training. Staffing demands may cause companies to rush the training or put someone behind the wheel of an unfamiliar vehicle just to get the job done. Inexperienced drivers put themselves in danger of injuring others on the road.
Get the Compensation you Deserve
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident involving a semi-truck, connecting with professionals with extensive experience in personal injury law is a must. Every case is unique and we pride ourselves on reviewing each case individually to determine the other party’s negligence and get you the reimbursement you deserve.
Payment for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage along with the emotional pain and suffering do not erase the trauma of a severe accident, but the compensation can help you on the road to recovery. Leave the negotiations up to us and focus on your healing, we don’t get paid to lose.
Connect with Lopez & Humphries, PA today for your free consultation by calling 863-709-8500 or completing the online form below.