Accidents happen. We all know that. But when a semi-truck is involved in an accident, the potential for devastation is much greater than with other types of vehicles. Semi-trucks are much larger and heavier than other vehicles on the road, which means the force of an impact can be devastating. In addition to serious injuries or death, there is also the risk of fire or chemical spills following a semi-truck accident.
If you are injured in a semi-truck accident, it is important to understand your legal options and what to expect from a potential lawsuit. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most devastating consequences of semi-truck accidents. We’ll also explore what you can do if you or your loved one is involved in such an accident. So read on to learn more.
How Do Semi-truck Accidents Happen?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, despite being some of the largest vehicles on the road, semi-trucks are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. Many factors can contribute to semi-truck accidents; however, the following are some of the most common:
Driver Fatigue
Trucking is a demanding industry, and long hours on the road can take a toll on even the most experienced driver. Fatigue can also be caused by other factors, such as medication side effects or underlying health conditions.
In some cases, truckers may try to push through their fatigue to meet their delivery deadlines, which can further increase the risk of an accident.
Truckers may also try to combat fatigue by drinking coffee or energy drinks, but these beverages can only do so much. Eventually, the body needs rest, and driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is yet another leading cause of semi-truck accidents. When truck drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a few seconds, they put themselves and others at risk.
Many things can cause a truck driver to become distracted, including talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, and even daydreaming.
Although some truck drivers may believe that they can multitask or are experienced enough to handle distractions, the reality is that no one is immune to the dangers of distracted driving. Truck drivers can help prevent accidents and keep our roads safe by remaining focused on the task.
Reckless Driving
Semi-trucks are some of the largest vehicles on the road, and they can pose a serious threat if they are not driven responsibly.
That’s why reckless driving still appears on the list of the major causes of semi-truck accidents. This can include speeding, tailgating, and making sudden lane changes. Semi-trucks also require a significant amount of brake space, so these maneuvers can easily lead to a collision.
What are the Common Semi-Truck Accident Injuries?
Head injuries
Head injuries are some of the most common semi-truck accident injuries. The head is very susceptible to being hit by objects, including the steering wheel, dashboard, back of the seat, or other truck parts.
Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, head injuries can even be fatal. Symptoms of a head injury may include dizziness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Seeing a doctor as soon as you experience any of these symptoms will help you feel better and prevent further damage.
Neck and Back Injuries
Neck and back injuries are often the result of the sudden impact of the collision, which can cause the spine to be jarred out of alignment.
This can sometimes lead to serious conditions such as whiplash or even spinal cord damage. If you have been involved in a semi-truck accident, seek immediate medical attention to ensure that your injuries are correctly diagnosed and treated.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is a serious and often fatal injury that can occur in even the most minor-seeming truck accidents. The force of a collision can cause organs to rupture or break blood vessels, leading to dangerous internal bleeding.
Sometimes, the only way to save the victim’s life is to perform emergency surgery. Even with prompt medical treatment, internal bleeding can be difficult to control and may lead to permanent damage or death.
Burns
Three main types of burns that can occur in a semi-truck accident: friction burns, chemical burns, and thermal burns. Friction burns happen when the skin rubs or scrapes against a rough surface, such as asphalt.
Chemical burns happen when a caustic substance, such as battery acid, comes into contact with the skin. On the other hand, thermal burns are caused by exposure to extreme heat or cold. All three types of burns can be excruciating and may require extensive medical treatment.
How Can You Protect Yourself From a Semi-truck Accident?
There are some steps you can take to protect yourself from a truck accident:
Pay Attention to Truck Drivers
Paying attention to the truck drivers around you is one of the best ways to protect yourself from a semi-truck accident. Remember that these drivers are professionals and have a lot of experience on the road.
They know how to operate their vehicles safely and can often avoid accidents by following the proper procedures. However, there are still some risks associated with being near a truck, so it is vital to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
If you see a truck driver who seems to be driving erratically, give them plenty of space and do not attempt to pass them. Taking these precautions can help you avoid becoming involved in a severe accident.
Be Aware of Trucks’ Blind Spots
Trucks have four blind spots: in front of the truck, behind the truck, to the right, and to the left of the truck extending two lanes over. The best way to avoid an accident is to stay out of a truck’s blind spot. The rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the truck driver in their mirrors, they can’t see you.
Use your turn signal when you want to pass a truck, and don’t cut back in too quickly after passing. And always give trucks plenty of space when passing 一 Don’t try to squeeze by! Knowing the trucks’ blind spots can help protect you from an accident.
Keep Your Distance from Trucks
Semi-trucks are much heavier than passenger cars and have a higher center of gravity. This means that they are more likely to roll over in an accident. In addition, the sheer size of semi-trucks can make it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles.
They require extra time and space to brake, turn, and stop. Therefore, giving them plenty of room on the road is essential. Keep your distance from trucks. If you must drive next to a truck, give yourself plenty of space.
Semi-Truck Accidents – Are We Doing Something?
In the United States, trucking is a vital part of the economy, with semi trucks transporting goods across the country. However, these enormous vehicles can be dangerous, and semi-truck wrecks are a serious problem on American highways.
In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 4,965 large trucks involved in fatal crashes in 2020 alone. This figure represents a 1% increase from the previous year.
Semi-truck wrecks often cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicles. They can also cause major traffic delays and disruptions. As a result, there is a great need for effective solutions to this problem.
One measure that has been taken is to require all new trucks to be equipped with electronic logging devices. These devices help ensure drivers stay within the hours-of-service limits the government sets.
The government has also been creating special highway lanes specifically for trucks. These lanes help to keep trucks separate from other traffic, reducing the risk of collisions.
Finally, law enforcement agencies have increased their efforts to crack down on unsafe driving by trucks. And, so far, so good. We’re getting there.
What You Should Do Following a Semi-truck Accident Injury
If you’re involved in a semi-truck accident, you should first seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor.
After seeing a doctor, your next step should be to contact an experienced truck accident attorney. These lawyers will know how to deal with the trucking company and its insurance adjusters. They will also ensure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Without an attorney, the trucking company’s insurance adjuster may try to take advantage of you. They may lowball you on your settlement offer or even deny your claim altogether. Don’t let them push you around. Contact a truck accident attorney today to get the help you need.
It is also essential to get the contact information of any witnesses to the accident, as their testimony may be crucial to your case. In addition, take photos of the accident scene and any damage to your vehicle. These photos can be used as evidence to support your claim.
Looking for an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney?
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences for the victims and their families. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you investigate the cause of the accident and hold the responsible parties accountable.
You should not have to bear the financial burden of a truck accident that was not your fault. Fetterman & Associates, PA, will fight for you and ensure you receive every penny you deserve for your injuries, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Visit our website or give us a call at (561) 845-2510 right away to find out how we can assist you.