There are about 15.5 million trucks operating within the United States. Tractor trailer trucks are most often involved in accidents. This means that 2 million tractor trailers that travel the roads have the potential to be involved in a serious accident. These trucks are often hauling necessary food and products to different cities and towns.
Research reveals that 80% out of 45,000 traffic deaths per year are the fault of truck drivers. The accidents are handled on an individual basis, common causes include fatigue and issues with other drivers on the road. Many drivers of cars and SUVs often cut off truck drivers or speed up to go around the truck. Some car drivers try to sneak by as a truck is turning and become pinned between the truck and objects on the edge of the street such as bus benches, poles and fences.
If you are involved in an accident with a truck you need to report it immediately. Contact the police, insurance company and call for emergency medical care if needed. Use your cell phone to take pictures and videos of the accident. Explain your side of the situation in detail with the police officer. Do not speak to anyone else, not even the other driver about the details.
Since trucks are often hauling a heavy load and traveling at high speeds on expressways, they are more likely to lose control during extreme weather conditions. High winds and rain that causes slippery conditions is a bad combination for tractor trailer trucks. All commercial truck drivers are educated on dealing with harsh conditions. However, even the most experienced truck driver can become involved in a serious accident.
Due to the fast travel speed and heavy weight of the truck, accidents often result in serious injury or death of victims in nearby cars. In the case of victims being seriously injured or dying due to an accident, there is a possibility of a lawsuit.
The cause of the accident involving a truck needs to be determined. Police reports, medical documents, pictures, videos and witness statements are helpful during this process. If you have been involved in an accident with a truck and sustained injuries or if a family member passed away due to a truck accident, you should contact an attorney immediately for further assistance.
Acting as quickly as possible by contacting an attorney will help confirm if you have a case or not against the truck driver or company. Don’t hesitate, make the call today!
