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We rely on semi-trucks to deliver food and goods to stores and other locations. However, these trucks are huge and can cause serious accidents. These trucks can weigh 10-20 times more than passenger vehicles, so a collision can be more serious than a car accident, or even deadly.
Like car crashes, truck accidents can be caused by a variety of factors. While most of these are caused by driver error, other parties, such as trucking companies, loaders, and manufacturers, can be held liable. That’s why it is important to seek legal help as quickly as possible if you are a victim.
Common Cause: Driver Error
The most common cause of truck accidents is driver error, but the driver in question is usually not the truck driver. More than 80% of truck accidents related to driver error are caused by the driver of the passenger vehicle. This means that drivers need to be careful when driving around these huge trucks.
This does not mean that truck drivers are off the hook, however. Many truckers engage in dangerous behavior while behind the wheel, such as driving while intoxicated or drowsy. Many are also inexperienced and not skilled at driving such as large vehicles. Blind spots can be especially troublesome for truck drivers. Many also drive while distracted. Many use their cell phones while behind the wheel, causing them to not see dangers in front of them.
Common Cause: Equipment Failure
On a daily basis, semi-trucks drive thousands of miles, which is much more than a typical passenger vehicle, which might not get more than a thousand miles on the odometer in the span of a month. These vehicles experience tremendous wear and tear, which means that more time needs to be spent maintaining and repairing these vehicles. Drivers should look over their vehicles every time they go onto the road. If they see issues, they should alert their employer immediately. Broken windshields, steering issues, and worn brake pads and tires should not be overlooked, as these issues can cause serious accidents.
Equipment failure, however, is not always the fault of the driver or trucking company. Equipment can sometimes experience defects during production. This can cause parts to malfunction unexpectedly, causing serious accidents.
Common Cause: Weather Conditions
Trucks can be difficult to control in inclement weather. Because trucks are so heavy and cannot stop quickly, it can be hard for drivers to keep control of their truck in rain, ice, and snow. Truckers need to be trained on how to stay at an appropriate speed and use proper braking techniques.
Harvey L. Walner & Associates, LTD has been winning cases like these for over 50 years!
Truck accidents can be especially dangerous, with trucks weighing as much as 80,000 pounds and carrying huge loads of cargo. If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a truck crash, seek legal help right away.
The Chicago truck accident lawyers at Harvey L. Walner & Associates, LTD know that truck accident claims can be complicated, so swift action is necessary. The damages involved in such a crash can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, so time is of the essence. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today. Call (312) 313-2888 or fill out the online request form.
