Types of Truck Accidents

What Makes a Truck Accident So Dangerous?

The size and weight of commercial trucks make their involvement in an accident more dangerous than a passenger vehicle crash. When a large truck is unable to stop safely, the force of impact is greater than what is experienced in other car accidents. A rollover involving a commercial truck can lead to crushing a smaller car, increasing the chances of catastrophic injuries or a fatality.

The Many Risks Posed by Commercial Trucks

Trucking accidents can happen in a number of ways. Some of the most common types of truck accidents are:

• Jackknifing: This happens when a truck is unable to stop, and the trailer of the truck pushes forward at an angle with the cab. Cars in the path of a jackknifed truck are likely to be hit hard and pushed into other vehicles.
• Rollover: A semi-truck that does not come to a safe stop may roll over if traveling at an excessive speed or driving on ice. Driving in high winds could cause the top of the trailer to sway with enough force to cause the entire truck to roll over. Vehicles traveling near a truck that rolls over can be crushed or demolished, potentially killing those inside.
• Exceeding weight capacity: Trucking regulations are in place for a reason, and that is to ensure the roadways are safe to share with large commercial vehicles. One of the most important regulations is the weight limit capacity, since a truck that is overloaded may have difficulty stopping. The result can be a devastating accident with serious injuries.
• Traffic violations: Truck drivers are required to abide by the same traffic laws as the rest of us, and running a light or speeding are especially dangerous in a truck.
• Drunk driving: A trucker who drives while compromised due to alcohol or drugs is open to liability for any accident caused, and the trucking company itself may be liable as well.
• Faulty equipment: Trucking companies are also responsible for maintaining their trucks properly. When a defect is found that could have been fixed, the trucking company can be held liable for injuries suffered in an accident.
• Road and weather conditions: All drivers should be alert to changing weather and road conditions to ensure safe driving, but with trucks, this is especially true given the extra time required to make a safe stop.
• Wide turns: Wide turns present the opportunity for an accident when a truck driver is not paying full attention to the cars surrounding the truck.  

We help victims of trucking accidents by pinpointing the cause of the accident, and pursuing maximum compensation to cover all medical costs, lost wages, and other losses suffered. We establish who is at fault and proceed accordingly. Attorney Stephen G. Charpentier and his team can be your advocate.

Speak With Our Brevard County Trucking Accident Attorneys Today!

If you have been in an accident involving a truck, call us today for help. You may contact us online or call us at 321-308-8020.