Introduction
Driving 18 wheelers or semi-trailer trucks has inherent risks due to their size and speed, which can cause significant damage on the roads. In 2018, there were 4,862 fatal crashes involving large trucks, with singles (including 18-wheelers) accounting for 55% of them. When a collision with a large truck occurs, it can lead to various complications, emphasizing the importance of seeking legal advice from a specialized attorney immediately. An attorney who focuses on 18 wheeler accidents can help navigate personal injuries, determine liability, and file insurance claims, providing essential guidance throughout the legal proceedings.
I. What is the reason for the high risk associated with 18-wheeler trucks?
Now, let’s explore the reasons why 18 wheelers are significantly more hazardous than standard vehicles.
- Weight and speed come into play in different types of vehicles. For instance, a regular consumer car usually weighs around 1.5 tons, while a loaded tractor can weigh up to 40 tons. In other words, a tractor weighs approximately 27 times more than a typical car. If we consider a situation where a 40-ton truck traveling at 60 mph crashes into a smaller vehicle, the results could be devastating.
- In comparison to cars, big trucks need a much longer distance to come to a stop. While a regular car traveling at 65 mph requires 316 feet to stop, a 40-ton truck traveling at the same speed needs 525 feet. Additionally, large trucks also experience brake lag due to air brakes, which adds to their stopping distance. As a result, 18-wheelers require an even greater distance to fully stop.
- Blind spots on large trucks, such as 18 wheelers, include the front, two sides, and back of the truck where smaller vehicles are not visible to the driver. The truck’s size and height make it difficult for drivers to see smaller cars in these areas, posing a risk for smaller vehicles if the truck driver does not check their blind spots properly.
- Dangerous substances are often transported by semi-trucks on American roads. Drivers must undergo specialized training to become hazmat drivers due to stricter regulations. These hazardous materials include flammable, explosive, radiological, or poisonous items, which can pose serious risks if spilled.
- Loose cargo: Not all large trucks have fully enclosed trailers. Some trucks have an open flat platform, so the driver must secure the load properly. If the driver fails to securely fasten the cargo, loose materials could cause accidents resulting in injuries or deaths. Types of inadequately secured cargo include raw materials, industrial equipment, automotive parts, and more.
Driving a large truck has many risks, and if these dangers are not addressed, it can lead to a collision. If someone else’s carelessness causes the accident, you have the right to pursue financial compensation. Consulting with a lawyer who focuses on 18 wheeler accidents can provide guidance on the most appropriate steps to take in these circumstances.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Crashes
Determining the cause of a collision with an 18 wheeler is often complex and not easy to pinpoint. The truck driver may not always be the only one at fault for the crash. In many cases, there are multiple factors that contribute to these accidents. The following are some common reasons for 18 wheeler accidents.
A. Driver Inexperience
Prior to receiving a Commercial Drivers License (CDL), drivers must undergo extensive training. The exact qualifications vary by state, but typically, drivers must pass a written exam, obtain a learner’s permit, and pass a driving test.
As the demand for truck drivers in the industry increases, companies may be hiring drivers who are not completely qualified, whether they are aware of it or not. Furthermore, there are cases of fraud in obtaining trucking licenses from untrustworthy trucking schools, which adds to the number of inexperienced drivers on the roads.
B. Driver Fatigue
According to the FMCSA, fatigue was a factor in 13% of accidents involving commercial truck drivers. Truck drivers frequently face long hours and difficult conditions while driving, increasing the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel of a large vehicle.
In order to address this hazard, rules called hours-of-service (HOS) have been put in place to limit how long drivers can drive for. For instance, drivers can only drive for up to 11 hours after taking 10 hours of rest. There are also mandatory breaks that drivers must take while working. Nevertheless, even with these rules, driver fatigue can still happen. Additionally, some drivers may choose to defy HOS regulations in order to meet delivery deadlines, which puts all road users at risk.
C. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has a significant impact on truck crashes and near-crashes, with about 80 percent of incidents involving distracted truck drivers. There are numerous ways in which distracted driving can manifest.
It can be located either inside or outside of the cab, such as:
- Texting
- Using dispatch devices
- Food and drinks
- Smoking
- Glancing at billboard
- Adjusting the GPS
In the modern world, technological advancements have made it difficult for drivers to remain attentive while driving. Whether it’s using tablets, cell phones, or in-dash displays, even a momentary lapse in focus can result in a major accident with a large truck.
D. Improper Maintenance
Trucking companies must follow strict maintenance regulations established by FMCSA to ensure their vehicles operate safely. This includes regularly inspecting crucial components like brakes, fuel systems, lights, and tires to ensure they meet safety standards.
Some trucking companies may cut corners on truck maintenance to save money, leading to potentially dangerous situations like accidents caused by faulty brakes or old tires. Trucking companies, maintenance contractors, and truck drivers all share the responsibility of ensuring that proper maintenance is regularly conducted.
G. Bad Weather
Adverse weather can play a role in accidents with large 18-wheeler trucks. Factors like strong winds, snow, ice, rain, and fog can all contribute to these incidents. Truck drivers must exercise increased caution in poor weather conditions because their visibility is limited and it takes longer for them to come to a stop.
Truck drivers are legally allowed to refuse to drive if they feel it is unsafe under federal regulations. However, the pressure to meet delivery deadlines often leads drivers to continue driving in dangerous weather conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.
III. Steps to Take After an Accident Involving a Large Truck
After being involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Below are some fundamental actions to consider following the accident.
A. Move to Safety
If the accident is not serious and your car is still operational, move it to a safe location to avoid another collision. However, if it is safer to remain where you are or if you have sustained serious injuries, stay put and wait for help to arrive. Use your phone to call 911 and notify the authorities about the accident.
B. Document the Scene
If you can, try to document the situation with pictures. Take photos of the damage, debris, injuries, and the area around the scene. Get in touch with anyone who saw what happened and ask for their contact details. Nearby businesses may have security footage of the incident.
C. Seek Medical Attention
Being involved in a crash with an 18-wheeler can have serious outcomes and should be treated with care. It is important to promptly seek medical help without hesitation. It is recommended to see a doctor, even if you feel fine right after the accident. Keep in mind that some injuries, like whiplash, may not show symptoms right away and may require a medical evaluation soon after the incident.
D. Consult with an 18 Wheeler Lawyer
At times, people who have been in a car accident might make the error of giving statements about the accident to insurance companies without consulting a lawyer who specializes in 18-wheeler injury cases. Insurance companies do not have a strong motivation to provide compensation, since trucking companies, backed by their insurers, will vigorously fight against any claims made. It is recommended to trust a skilled attorney to handle discussions with insurance companies, as this could improve the chances of receiving fair compensation for any injuries suffered.
IV. The Ways in Which an Attorney Specializing in 18-Wheeler Accidents Can Provide Assistance
Facing the aftermath of a crash with a big rig can be difficult, but a law firm that specializes in these types of accidents can offer crucial support in handling your case as you concentrate on recovering from your injuries.
hey’ll address questions such as:
- Who is to blame? There are multiple parties that may be responsible in a crash with a large truck. The fault could be with the truck driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer of the truck, another driver, or a separate entity. It is important to identify the negligent party in order to seek compensation. A lawyer can help identify the parties at fault and prepare a case on your behalf.
- What amount of money can I receive as compensation? A collision with an 18-wheeler can cause substantial harm. A competent lawyer should ensure that you receive the required financial compensation to help you recover. This includes enough money to cover medical bills, car repairs, lost wages, legal fees, and other costs related to pain and suffering.
- How can you effectively negotiate with insurance companies? Insurance companies typically aim to resolve claims quickly and may offer a lower settlement in hopes that you will agree. People often struggle to negotiate effectively with these companies. But an attorney who specializes in handling accidents with big rigs understands the tactics used by insurance companies and can help you receive the best possible outcome.
V. Utilization of the corporate lawyer at Valiente Mott
You don’t have to navigate the complicated legal process alone. Valiente Mott’s truck accident lawyers can help guide you through the complexities of these cases.
Contact us today to book a free consultation. Whether you need the help of a personal injury attorney in Las Vegas or an injury lawyer in Salt Lake City, we are available to offer the assistance you require.