publive-image

Trucks account for thousands of accidents annually in the U.S. According to an NHTSA report, truck accident records reached a new 16-year high in 2021, with a 10.5% increase in fatalities. While their relatively larger size is partially to blame for accidents, other factors may also contribute to motor vehicle accidents involving big rigs. 

However, regardless of the reason, there is no denying truck accidents can be extremely devastating. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, it is crucial to contact an experienced attorney. Get in touch with a San Francisco-based truck accident lawyer or a lawyer familiar with local laws for favorable outcomes. Meanwhile, here are some common causes of truck accidents to help avoid mishaps on the road. 

Driver Fatigue:

Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents. Trucking companies have a reputation for having long working hours and strict monitoring systems to analyze driver performance. Since their earnings are dependent on daily targets achieved, drivers are often pressured into driving for long hours without taking breaks to maximize outcomes. 

Intoxicated Driving:

Intoxicated driving or driving under the influence significantly contributes to road crashes. Punishable under law, cases of truck accidents caused by DUI fall under the category of criminal defense and not civil lawsuits. 

Poor Vehicle Maintenance:

Several state and federal laws mandate trucking companies to ensure adequate maintenance of their trucks. Since large trucks are prone to causing extensive damage due to their size, it is essential to have only well-maintained trucks on the road to prevent accidents. Poorly maintained vehicles or those with faulty parts can result in severe injuries and accidents. 

Weather Conditions:

Ice, rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions are road hazards that may significantly contribute to a truck accident. Reduced tire traction caused by snow or water can cause trucks to slip into other lanes or off the road. Similarly, poor visibility due to fog or smoke can make it difficult to assess the distance between vehicles or miss out on key road markings. 

Cargo Loading Issues:

Most trucks on the road are commercial vehicles carrying cargo and deliveries. A poorly loaded truck can be challenging to control and may lead to truck rollovers. This is especially if the cargo is overloaded. Truck accidents due to poorly loaded cargos are more likely with new drivers who may not have the training or driving skills to handle the weight. 

Potential Compensation:

Compensation that can be recovered in a truck accident typically falls under economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to all the current and future financial losses the victim is suspected of incurring due to the accident. Non-economic, on the other hand, provides compensation for the reduced quality of life or emotional distress the victim may have suffered. The following are the compensation you can expect from a truck accident lawsuit:

Economic Damages:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Other injury-related costs

Non-economic Damages:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • Disability
  • Reduced quality of life 

If you are filing a truck accident claim to seek compensation, knowing that your compensation depends on your circumstances is essential. Factors like shared responsibility, the severity of injuries, and the capacity to establish negligence can influence your overall compensation. 

Final Thoughts:

The consequences of a truck accident can be devastating for victims. Due to their larger size, most truck accidents result in severe injuries and conditions like long-term disability, coma, or paralysis. In such a scenario, the proper compensation can significantly reduce the stress of mounting bills and distress. Hiring an experienced lawyer can ensure you get the compensation you deserve.