Motor vehicle collisions involving 18-wheeler trucks are some of the most devastating because their size and weight can cause considerable damage to passenger vehicles—and the occupants inside them. Even truck accidents that happen at slow speeds can result in serious injuries and even fatalities.
Semi tractor truck on rural road with green plants on shoulder.
Sadly, collisions involving huge tractor-trailers are relatively common for a variety of reasons. For example, truckers are prone to drowsy driving because of their rigorous schedules, and motorists often fail to account for a truck’s blind spots when driving near them in traffic.
If you were hurt in a truck accident that was not your fault, you may be eligible for compensation to cover the costs associated with treating your injuries. Contact Heilman Law Group to discuss your case and determine the best way to proceed.
A Jackson 18-wheeler accident lawyer will review the circumstances of your case, gather evidence, interview witness, calculate your damages, and negotiate with the opposing party for a fair settlement on your behalf. Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a consultation.
Read on to learn about some of the most common causes of truck crashes:
- Errors in the Trucker’s Judgment
In the Large Truck Crash Causation Study, researchers found that errors in a truck driver’s judgment contributed to almost 40 percent of all 18-wheeler collisions. Common driver decision errors include:
- Traveling too fast for the current weather or traffic conditions;
- Misjudging stopping distance between other vehicles;
- Following other vehicles too closely;
- Assuming other motorists will take certain actions;
- Failing to abide by local traffic laws; and
- Taking turns too quickly or too tightly.
- Distracted Driving
Truckers are prone to boredom, which can lead to distracted driving. They may also feel the need to multitask in order to make tight deadlines.
This might include eating or adjusting the navigation system while behind the wheel, both of which are incredibly dangerous. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 71 percent of truck accidents in 2009 occurred when the driver was focusing on something other than operating the vehicle.
- Drunk Driving
According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., approximately 1 in 12 American adults abuses alcohol. Since alcoholism does not discriminate, it is safe to assume that at least a handful of truck drivers have driven while impaired.
- Drowsy Driving
There are both federal and state regulations that limit how long a trucker can drive in a single day or week. Truckers face an overwhelming amount of pressure to make their deliveries on time, though, which can lead to them taking fewer rest stops and driving while drowsy as a result.
- Vehicle Malfunctions
Bald tires, defective brakes, and even malfunctioning wiper blades can contribute to a devastating collision. When an accident is the result of a malfunctioning vehicle, the victims might name the mechanic or manufacturer in their lawsuit.
If you were hurt in a truck accident, a Jackson 18-wheeler accident attorney can handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Contact Heilman Law Group to discuss the circumstances of your collision and to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Call 601-914-1025 to schedule a case evaluation. You can learn more about truck accidents in Mississippi by visiting the USAttorneys website.
By John Nisbett | Published October 23, 2017 | Posted in Car accident | Tagged 18 wheeler accident attorney, Heilman Law Group, Injury lawyer, Jackson