Semitrailer Truck Accidents Are Unique

Semitrailer Truck Accidents Are More Dangerous Than Vehicle Crashes

Semis and tractor trailers are common on roadways across the United States. When a large truck crashes into a passenger vehicle, occupants in the latter face a much higher risk for injury or death. In 2017, there were 4,102 fatalities as a result of large truck accidents.

Truck Drivers Have Extensive Training

For the most part, commercial truck drivers are very professional and spend the majority of their time driving safely on the road. All drivers have to complete mandatory safety classes. Furthermore, many have had extensive experience driving in all road conditions. However, even the best truck drivers on the road can still get into accidents at any moment.

When a car comes into contact with a large tractor-trailer, the results can be devastating. Due to obvious physics, most of the fatalities involve the driver or passengers in the smaller vehicle. If you’ve been involved in an accident, consider contacting an Allentown truck accident attorney right away.

Truck Accidents Are Unique

The main reason semitrailer truck accidents are dangerous is due to the weight and the size of the vehicles. Some other reasons for the deadly nature of truck accidents include:

• • High speeds. Since most large trucks are traveling on the highway, they are usually moving at high speeds when an accident occurs. These speeds can cause a heavier impact on the other vehicle and result in the truck overturning on the road.

• • Long stopping times. Due to the weight of commercial trucks, they cannot stop as quickly as smaller vehicles can. A fully loaded truck traveling at a normal speed needs the length of two football fields to make a complete stop. For passenger vehicle drivers, it is important to never cut off a truck because it requires a longer time to come to a complete stop.

• • Drive fatigue. Many truck drivers have to work long hours behind the wheel. In most cases, they need to have their cargo at its destination by a specific time. Some drivers will take on extra loads to earn more money. Whatever the reason, driver fatigue is a real condition on the road. Once fatigue sets in, a driver will be less responsive on the road, and there is an increased risk of a truck accident.

• • Improper truck maintenance. All trucking companies have the legal responsibility to keep up with the maintenance of their fleet. However, some owners try to cut costs and fail to maintain these vehicles. When a part malfunctions on the truck, there is an increased risk for a fatal wreck.

There are many state and government regulations designed to reduce the occurrence of large truck crashes. For example, truckers are required to follow hours of service rules aimed to prevent fatigued driving. Unfortunately, not everyone abides by the regulations. If you were involved in a truck accident, and the other driver was negligent, you can seek compensation for your injuries. Since truck accidents are unique, you will want to hire an Allentown truck accident attorney to handle your case.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

If you have been involved in a serious tractor-trailer accident, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a more favorable outcome in your case. To improve your chances of a fair settlement, be sure to:

• • Seek medical attention after the accident, and keep all the bills for treatment.

• • Take pictures of the accident scene.

• • Note the trucking company name and the driver’s information.

• • Get the full police report.

• • Find witnesses, and write down their names.

• • Never talk to the trucking company’s insurance provider unless directed by your attorney.

Consult an Attorney for Your Case

Truck accident injuries are severe, and they often lead to lifetime disabilities. These injuries can mean expensive medical bills, lost wages and physical pain. Negligent truck drivers and/or fleet owners should be held accountable for their actions. Contact the team at Metzger & Kleiner to discuss your case. You can call our Philadelphia office at (215) 567-6616 to schedule a consultation.