When you’re on the road, the last thing you expect is to be involved in an accident, but truck accidents are unfortunately common—and they can be devastating. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them much more dangerous in collisions, often leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. At Morris Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a trucking accident can have on victims and their families. Our goal is to help you understand your rights and how our experienced attorneys can fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Dangers of Trucking Accidents
Commercial trucks—whether they are semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or delivery trucks—are involved in a significant number of roadway accidents every year. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 100,000 large truck accidents result in injuries annually, and thousands more lead to fatalities.
Trucking accidents are often far more dangerous than typical passenger vehicle collisions for several reasons:
- Size and Weight: A fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which is roughly 20-30 times heavier than a standard passenger vehicle. This massive weight can cause severe damage when colliding with smaller vehicles.
- Long Stopping Distances: Due to their size, trucks require much longer distances to stop, especially when traveling at high speeds or in poor weather conditions. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions and accidents caused by trucks unable to stop in time.
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction time and decision-making abilities.
- Blind Spots: Large trucks have significant blind spots, making it harder for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles around them. This can lead to side-impact accidents, especially when the truck makes lane changes or turns.
- Cargo Issues: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause trucks to tip over or spill their load, creating dangerous conditions for other drivers on the road.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
There are several factors that contribute to trucking accidents, and understanding them is key to determining fault and seeking compensation. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers work long hours, and sleep-deprived drivers are a significant safety risk. The FMCSA has regulations to limit driving hours, but violations still occur.
- Distracted Driving: Like all drivers, truck drivers can become distracted by their phones, GPS systems, or other in-cab distractions. This is a growing problem in the trucking industry.
- Speeding: While trucking companies are required to ensure drivers adhere to speed limits, some drivers take risks to meet delivery deadlines. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of an accident.
- Improper Maintenance: Commercial trucks must be regularly inspected and maintained to keep them in safe working order. Mechanical failures due to lack of maintenance—such as tire blowouts or brake failures—can cause accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs—whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illicit—can impair a driver’s ability to operate a truck safely.
- Weather Conditions: Trucks are particularly vulnerable to adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, fog, and ice. Inexperienced or negligent driving in these conditions can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Improper Cargo Loading: Cargo that is not properly secured can shift during transit, causing the truck to lose control or spill its load, resulting in accidents.
Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident
If you are involved in a trucking accident, it’s important to stay calm and take certain steps to protect your health, your rights, and your potential legal case. Here’s what to do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Authorities: Always report the accident to the police. A police report will provide an official record of the accident, which can be crucial in determining liability.
- Document the Scene: If you’re able, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This can serve as vital evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim.
- Get Information: Collect contact and insurance information from the truck driver, other involved parties, and any witnesses. This includes the truck driver’s name, license plate number, and employer details.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Never admit fault at the scene, even if you think you might be partially responsible. Fault should be determined by the authorities and insurance companies.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Trucking accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties (the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, etc.). At Morris Law, we specialize in these types of cases and can help you navigate the legal process, advocate on your behalf, and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How Morris Law Can Help
At Morris Law, we have years of experience helping victims of trucking accidents. Our team is committed to holding responsible parties accountable and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Thorough Investigation: We will investigate the cause of the accident by reviewing police reports, trucking company records, driver logs, and any other relevant evidence. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Trucking companies and their insurers are often quick to settle claims for much less than you deserve. Our attorneys will fight to ensure you receive a fair settlement or, if necessary, pursue the case in court.
- Legal Expertise: Trucking accidents are subject to both state and federal regulations, which can be difficult to navigate. Our legal team is well-versed in these laws and will use that knowledge to strengthen your case.
- No Fees Unless We Win: At Morris Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This gives you the confidence to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Trucking accidents can be life-changing, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to Morris Law. Hunter and our personal injury team are here to help you recover physically, financially, and emotionally. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
Contact Morris Law: Your Trusted Partner in Trucking Accident Cases in Greenville, SC