If you are involved in an accident with a truck, there are a few things that you need to know. Trucks are much larger and heavier than cars, so the damage they can cause is often much greater. This blog post will discuss what happens when a truck driver has an accident. We will also provide some tips on how to stay safe when sharing the road with trucks.
Truck accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are over 500,000 truck accidents every year in the United States. This means that a truck accident occurs approximately every five minutes.
Of course, not all of these accidents are serious, but many of them do result in injuries or even fatalities. In fact, over 4000 people are killed in truck accidents every year.
So, what happens when a truck driver has an accident? First of all, if the truck driver caused the accident, they will likely be held responsible. This means that they could be liable for any damages that were caused by the accident.
If the truck driver did not cause the accident, then their insurance company will likely be responsible for any damages. However, it is important to keep in mind that most trucking companies carry very large insurance policies. This is because they know that the damage their trucks can cause is often much greater than the damage a car can cause.
If you are ever involved in an accident with a truck, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think you are seriously injured, it is always best to avoid caution and get checked out by a doctor.
Once you receive medical attention, you will need to gather evidence. This includes photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and your account of what happened. This evidence will be important if you need to file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company.
If you have been involved in an accident with a truck, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. They will be able to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Truck accidents can be complicated, but with the help of a qualified lawyer, you can get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contents
What Are the Most Common Types of Truck Accident Cases?
The most common types of truck accident cases are those involving:
Rear-end collisions
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of truck accident, accounting for about 29% of all accidents. These types of accidents typically occur when the truck driver is following too closely to the vehicle in front of them and fails to stop in time.
Side-impact collisions
Side-impact collisions, also known as T-bone collisions, are the second most common type of truck accident, accounting for about 26% of all accidents. These types of accidents typically occur when the truck driver fails to yield the right-of-way to a smaller vehicle, such as a passenger car, and collides with them.
Rollover accidents
Rollover accidents are the third most common type of truck accident, accounting for about 21% of all accidents. These types of accidents typically occur when the truck driver is going too fast around a curve or is otherwise unable to control the vehicle.
Head-on collisions
Head-on collisions are the fourth most common type of truck accident, accounting for about 11% of all accidents. These types of accidents typically occur when the truck driver is going the wrong way on a road or highway.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
The most common causes of truck accidents are:
Distracted driving
Distracted driving, such as texting while driving, is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. In fact, it is estimated that distracted driving plays a role in about 18% of all truck accidents.
Fatigued driving
Fatigued driving, or driving while tired, is another common cause of truck accidents. It is estimated that fatigued driving plays a role in about 13% of all truck accidents.
Impaired driving
Impaired driving, or driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is also a common cause of truck accidents. It is estimated that impaired driving plays a role in about 11% of all truck accidents.
What Are the Consequences of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences for both the people involved and their families. Some of the most common consequences of truck accidents include:
Injuries
Truck accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to serious injuries, such as broken bones and traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, truck accidents can even be fatal.
Property damage
Truck accidents can also cause extensive property damage. In addition to damaging the vehicles involved, truck accidents can also damage nearby property, such as buildings and signs.
Traffic disruptions
Truck accidents can also cause traffic disruptions, as the vehicles involved may need to be towed from the scene, and the road may need to be closed for cleanup.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. This way, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Can Truck Drivers Avoid Accidents?
Truck drivers can avoid accidents by driving defensively, obeying the speed limit, and staying alert. They should also avoid tailgating and weaving in and out of traffic. If a truck driver is involved in an accident, he or she should immediately pull over to the side of the road and call for help. The truck driver may be subject to a drug and alcohol test, and the truck will be inspected for mechanical problems. The truck driver may also be asked to submit a written report of the accident.
Conclusion
Truck drivers who are involved in accidents can face serious consequences, including losing their job, being fined, or even going to jail. If you are a truck driver, driving safely and carefully to avoid an accident is important. If you are involved in an accident, it is also important to seek legal help as soon as possible.
