Accidents involving 18-wheeler trucks can be some of the most damaging collisions. Resulting in severe injury and even death, truck accidents have a variety of potential causes. If you or someone you know were involved in a truck accident, contact a Hartford County truck accident attorney for legal advice and assistance.
Are Truck Accidents Worse Than Car Accidents?
Every motor vehicle accident can be damaging and tragic. However, accidents involving 18-wheeler trucks tend to cause more significant damage than a car accident between two passenger vehicles. Because of their massive size and weight, the results of a collision can be detrimental. Property damage will likely be extensive as will injuries sustained. Many fatalities occur from truck accidents.
What Causes Truck Accidents?
Driving any motor vehicle can be dangerous and there is always a risk of an accident or collision. When it comes to truck accidents some causes occur more often than others. Fault can lie with a variety of parties involved in the accident either directly or indirectly. The truck driver, the driver of another car, the trucking company, and even in some cases the local government can be held liable. Some notable causes of truck accidents can include the following.
- Truck driver error
- This can come in the form of reckless driving, speeding, disobeying traffic laws, distracted driving, intoxication, etc.
- Passenger vehicle driver error
- Drivers of surrounding vehicles need to keep in mind that there are certain limitations when operating a truck. They should avoid sudden braking in front of a truck, cutting them off, changing lanes suddenly, driving in their blind spots, etc.
- Weather
- Bad weather such as rain, fog, or snow can hinder the truck driver’s visibility creating an unsafe environment. Slick or icy roads can also lead to a crash.
- Poor road conditions
- Large potholes, cracks, uneven pavement, and debris in the road can cause unforeseen hazards.
- Fatigue
- Truck drivers have strict delivery schedules to meet and often get little sleep. If their company is not enforcing rest stops and breaks, a driver can fall asleep at the wheel or be extremely fatigued and lack awareness.
- Hiring and training issues
- If the trucking company did not thoroughly vet or background check their employees they may have hired someone without the required experience. Additionally, if they were lazy in their training practices they may have not prepared the driver to make their journey safely.
Should I Hire a Lawyer for My Case?
If you were involved in a trucking accident in any capacity it is highly recommended that you acquire the services of a skilled attorney. You may have been seriously injured in the accident and be entitled to damages, or you may be blamed for the collision and need representation.
In any circumstance, a lawyer can help. They are equipped with experience and knowledge of the law and will be able to gather information and evidence, communicate with the required agencies, negotiate for your compensation, and defend you in court. Speak with an attorney today to discuss your legal needs.
