Why You Need a Semi Truck Accident Lawyer
Semi trucks are heavy and cause a lot of damage in an accident. If you are involved in a crash with a commercial truck, you need an experienced Bakersfield truck accident lawyer on your side.
In many accidents involving commercial vehicles, the driver or trucking company can be held responsible for negligence. This includes violations of safety regulations, driving under the influence, texting while driving, and more.
Human Error
Eighteen-wheelers and other large commercial trucks are among the most dangerous vehicles on the road. They are prone to mechanical failures and are often driven long hours under tight deadlines.
While truck drivers are required to undergo a much higher amount of training than passenger car drivers, they can still make mistakes and crash. Drivers fatigued from long hours or under the influence of drugs are more likely to make errors that result in an accident.
Studies have found that human error is the leading cause of truck accidents. Specifically, driver error accounts for 88% of truck crashes.
Long Working Hours
Working long hours is a common practice that many workers engage in. It can be a way to earn extra money or relieve stress in their home life.
In some cases, however, long hours are a cause of serious injuries and wrongful deaths. This is especially true when a truck driver is tired and fatigued from driving for so many hours without getting much rest.
Long working hours have been linked to a variety of health problems, including hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and poor mental health. They also increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and poor physical health.
Over Speeding
Over speeding is a common cause of truck accidents. In fact, a recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration found that over 23 percent of truck crashes were caused by trucks traveling too fast for conditions.
Drivers speed for a variety of reasons, including running late for work or an appointment, frustration while driving in heavy traffic and disregard for the law. However, too fast a driver can cause fatalities or catastrophic injuries in a truck accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an over-speeding auto accident, you may have legal options available to recover compensation for your losses. A qualified attorney will help you determine which options are best for your case and pursue the maximum amount of damages you deserve.
Unsafe Road Conditions
Unsafe road conditions are a common cause of car and truck accidents. They can include potholes, uneven pavement, icy surfaces, and other roadway defects that pose hazards to drivers.
Drivers must be aware of these road hazards so they can avoid them. It’s important to be cautious when driving on these types of roads, and to report dangerous conditions to government agencies as soon as possible.
If you are injured in a crash caused by unsafe road conditions, you may be able to sue the government agency responsible for maintaining that roadway. This can be a complicated area of law, but it is an exception to the general rule that state and local governments are immune from civil liability suits.
Jackknife Crash
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a jackknife truck accident, it is imperative to get medical attention and file a claim. These crashes can cause serious injuries and result in permanent disability.
A jackknife crash occurs when the truck and trailer lose control. This is caused by a variety of factors including loss of traction, equipment malfunction, or negligence on the part of the driver.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a jackknife crash, a qualified semi truck accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for your damages. These damages can include medical costs, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.