Semi Truck Accidents and the Dangers of Large Vehicles
Courtney Cotter
Have you ever had a close call with a semi truck? You most likely are not alone.
People are injured in truck accidents on a daily basis throughout the country. In 2019, over 180,000 people were injured in auto accidents involving a tractor-trailer truck. From 2000 through 2020, the rate of injuries from trucking accidents stayed relatively the same, according to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This suggests that roadway safety, specifically related to tractor trailers, is not improving.
State-specific data is just as concerning as nationwide statistics. The Tennessee Highway Patrol reports that a crash involving a large truck occurred every three minutes in 2020. The number of large truck accidents in Tennessee is disheartening, and the road to recovery after an accident can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate your personal injury case alone. If you've been injured in a trucking accident, you will want a dedicated personal injury attorney on your side.
The Dangers of Large Trucks
Large vehicles like 18-wheelers and semi-trucks can be especially dangerous if involved in a collision. Because they can weigh up to five times more than a car, trucks have the ability to create catastrophic damage in auto accidents. Their weight, overall size, and cargo make tractor trailers challenging to operate. Truck drivers must also take extra precautions to protect themselves and other motorists. Unfortunately, some truckers and freight companies do not prioritize safety as they should.
Causes of Semi Truck Accidents
While a variety of factors can cause any vehicle to crash, there are a few common causes of large truck accidents.
🚛 Drowsy Driving
Strict timeframes, mileage pay, and industry competition can lead truck drivers to ignore the hours of service rule regulating the number of hours drivers can be on duty. Driver fatigue impairs judgment and reaction time, and it can even cause truckers to fall asleep behind the wheel.
🚛 Distracted Driving
Whether eating on the go, adjusting the music playlist, looking at route information, or checking text messages, distractions are plentiful for truck drivers. Trucking accidents are often caused by a driver whose attention was pulled from the road.
🚛 Improper Driving
Improper driving can mean any number of irresponsible, negligent, or unsafe behaviors. Speeding, failing to yield, and other traffic violations often lead to collisions. Further, a lack of driver training can also translate into more truck accidents as drivers are not equipped to handle their vehicles.
🚛 Cargo Loads
Aside from making the truck heavier and slower to stop, cargo loads can also tilt and slide as the truck moves. If the cargo is not properly loaded into the truck, shifts can be severe enough to cause accidents.
🚛 Maintenance and Equipment
Regular, thorough maintenance is important to keep a truck in top working order. Tractor trailers are put under incredible wear and tear, and equipment failure or defects can be catastrophic. Proper maintenance is crucial, whether the company's or the driver's responsibility.
Regardless of the cause of the trucking accident, truck drivers are expected to operate their vehicles safely because any accident involving a large truck will likely have severe consequences for the victims.
👩🏼💼 Do You Need a Lawyer?
The insurance company, specifically the adjuster handling your claim, is going to do everything in his/her power to make sure you get the least amount of compensation if he/she offers anything at all.
Hiring an attorney can ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. Cotter Law is here for you if you want a personal injury attorney specializing in truck accidents. At Cotter Law it is our priority to take on the fight with the insurance company while you focus on recovering from your motorcycle accident. Fill out the form below or call Cotter Law today to schedule your FREE consultation at (865) 888-7155 to speak with an experienced attorney.