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Commercial trucks are responsible for transporting about 75% of the freight in the United States. Of course, this means that we share many of the roads we use daily with a larger number of commercial trucks, such as semi-trailers.
As the driver of an automobile, one of the most dangerous accidents you can have involves a commercial truck. Due to these vehicles’ weight and size, they can cause a lot of damage and serious injuries when they collide with other drivers. Unfortunately, there are many common types of truck accidents.
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Different Types of Truck Accidents
Although it is possible to witness many different types of truck accidents, we will focus on the most common.
Head-On Collisions
In a head-on collision, the front of a large truck collides with the front-end of another vehicle. These accidents result in grave injury or fatality because the impact strikes near the drivers and front-seat passengers.
Rear-End Collisions
A large truck drives over the back of a smaller vehicle. Most truck accidents are rear-ended collisions.
T-Bone Accidents
This accident is also known as a side-impact collision and is very dangerous because there isn’t much protection on the vehicle’s side.
Jackknife Accidents
A truck brakes suddenly, and their trailer swings out to a ninety-degree angle, which may cause the truck to roll-over.
Blind Spot Accidents
Semi-trucks have large blind spots where the driver loses sight of other vehicles. It may cause them to collide.
Roll-Over Accidents
If a truck driver loses control, the trailer may roll over and drop its cargo, causing a hazard for other motorists. Items that fall from tractor-trailers can project into the roadway, increasing the risk of collision.
Underride Accidents
Trucks making abrupt stops may cause other vehicles to go right under the truck’s rear. The top of a car can not withstand so much force, and many times it will be torn off or crushed.
Tire Blowouts
Although a tire blowout can happen to any vehicle, it is especially hazardous if it occurs while driving a truck that weighs up to 60,000 pounds, as it can cause the driver to lose control. If the driver was operating at a very high speed when they lost control of the truck, it would undoubtedly lead to devastating consequences.
What are the Causes of Truck Accidents?
While some of these semi-truck accidents are unavoidable, distracted driving, improper training, failure to maintain equipment, and improper loading cause many accidents. That’s why freight companies must make sure that they prepare their drivers and regularly inspect their vehicles. They must remember that failure to do so can cause severe injuries and even a fatal accident.
What are the Most Common Injuries?
The injuries incurred in a truck accident vary depending on the type of accident one was involved in, but these are the most commonly reported injuries.
- Broken bones
- Brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Back and neck injuries
- Severe burns
- Loss of limbs
- Paralysis
- Death
Due to the severe nature of these injuries, those involved in the accident may seek compensation. This includes repayment for hospital bills, recovery, and the time you will be out of work. Of course, it is crucial to know who to sue after a truck accident, and that’s where attorneys can help.
How Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help
Unfortunately, truck accidents are common and have serious consequences. If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident, make sure you contact a truck accident lawyer. They will make sure that you get the compensation that you deserve.
Do you need more legal advice? Be sure to check out the law section of our website.
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