The number of deadly crashes involving large trucks is a significant problem. In 2023 alone, nearly 5,375 large trucks were part of fatal accidents, which is an increase of 43% in the last 10 years.
Large trucks now make up about 9 percent of all vehicles in deadly collisions, showing just how dangerous these vehicles can be when something goes wrong. Reach out to our truck accident lawyers in Washington, DC for a free consultation today.
Why Semi-Truck Accidents Happen and Why They Are So Severe
Big trucks get into accidents for many reasons, and when they do, the results are often much worse than with smaller vehicles. Here’s what makes these crashes more likely and more dangerous:
- Long Stopping Distance: Semi-trucks need much more room to come to a full stop. If a driver has to brake suddenly, they may not stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Size and Weight Difference: The enormous size and weight of a loaded truck create a force that smaller cars can’t match. When these vehicles collide, the smaller one usually suffers the worst damage.
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers cover long distances and may get tired or even fall asleep at the wheel. Fatigue slows reaction time and increases the risk of mistakes.
- Mechanical Failure: A blown tire, faulty brakes, or steering problems can cause a truck to lose control, especially at high speeds or on the highway.
- Blind Spots: Large trucks have big areas where the driver can’t see other vehicles. Cars that stay in these blind spots – which are much bigger on trucks than smaller vehicles – risk getting hit if the truck changes lanes or turns.
- Improper Loading: If the cargo inside a trailer isn’t loaded evenly or secured properly, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control.
Because of their size and how they operate, semi-truck accidents often cause major injuries and loss of life, despite all the regulations surrounding commercial truck safety today. That’s why understanding the risks and rules for commercial vehicles is so important for every driver on the road.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help with Semi-Truck Accidents
If you’ve been in a crash with a semi-truck, having a personal injury lawyer on your side is essential. Here’s how they can help:
Investigating the Accident
A lawyer reviews all aspects of the crash, gathering police reports, driver logs, and information from the trucking company. They work to find out exactly what caused the accident and whether any trucking rules were broken, like hours-of-service or maintenance regulations.
Handling Insurance Companies
Trucking companies and their insurers often send experienced adjusters to limit what they pay out. Your lawyer speaks to them for you, making sure your words can’t be twisted or used against you, and fights for the compensation you deserve.
Determining Liability
Accidents with big trucks can have more than one party who is responsible. The driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or even truck manufacturers may each share some blame. Your attorney looks at the circumstances to figure out who is liable so you can obtain compensation from the appropriate party.
Calculating Damages
Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs can add up quickly after a serious truck accident. An accident lawyer tracks every loss, making sure nothing gets left out of your claim and pushing for fair payment from those responsible.
Having legal help levels the playing field against big trucking companies and helps protect your interests while you focus on recovery. Contact us at (202) 919-5453 today to schedule a free consultation.