Why You Need a Semi Truck Accident Attorney
If you or someone close to you was injured in a collision with a commercial vehicle, you may have to engage an attorney who handles semi truck accidents. Because these accidents are so specific, you'll need someone who understands the specific laws and regulations applicable to commercial trucks.
Truck accidents can lead to liability for a variety of parties, including the trucking company manufacturer, driver, and others. A knowledgeable lawyer is in a position to guide you through these areas and ensure you receive the compensation you are due.
1. Human error
Truck accidents are often caused by human error. In fact 87% of truck accidents involve an error of some kind. This is an issue because most people aren't aware of all the factors that go into the process of getting a large rig or 18-wheeler on the road, and ensuring it is secure.
In addition, truck drivers who work for long hours without getting enough rest could cause fatal accidents. Statistics show that fatigued drivers is responsible for 30 percent of truck accident deaths.
As a result, it is essential for truckers to adhere to federal and state regulations regarding the number of hours they can travel in a day and how much sleep they must get before they can drive again. This will prevent accidents from happening in the first place, and also ensures the safety of passengers and other drivers.
Human error is a complex issue that can involve a variety of individuals and different situations. This makes it difficult to determine who is at fault for an accident and how much you deserve for your injuries. An experienced lawyer who is skilled in large truck crashes can assist you in determining who is legally responsible for your injuries.
2. Defective equipment
Large industrial machinery and equipment can be prone to numerous problems, such as malfunctioning safety devices and faulty components. Injuries caused by defective equipment can turn a normal working day into a fatal or life-threatening situation for the workers and others around them.
Failures in equipment can cause financial losses and damage to the company's reputation. Incorrect ladders can cause falls and injuries and electrical equipment might be insulated incorrectly, which can cause burns or electrocution.
The defects in the trailer or truck parts could pose a threat to other drivers. For example a brake system that is not working properly can make it difficult for a truck driver to control the vehicle.
This could lead to many truck accidents, such as rear-end collisions, as well as collisions with other trucks. Brakes can fail due manufacturing defects or a lack of maintenance from the mechanic.
In certain instances the manufacturer of the equipment that is defective might be held responsible. A semi truck accident lawyer can seek compensation from the manufacturer in the event that the defect in the piece of equipment is the cause of an accident.
3. Long hours
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates how long truckers can work per week. These limits are meant to avoid fatigue which could cause numerous accidents.
Unfortunately truck drivers don't follow the rules. Many truck drivers go over their limits in an effort to exceed their company's mileage goals. This can lead to erratic driving habits and a higher risk.
Long commutes and insufficient amount of sleep can result in long hours, as well as a reduced capacity to complete tasks on time. All of these contribute to burnout and stress, which could have a major impact on your ability to perform your job at a top level.
While working long hours can be hazardous It is crucial to be aware that you are entitled to fair treatment. The best way to safeguard yourself is by hiring an experienced semi truck accident attorney.
A competent lawyer can assist you file the right insurance claim, get damages and prove negligence on the part of the liable parties. A good attorney will also look over your case and determine the best course of action to obtain the compensation you deserve.
4. Negligence
Negligence is any action that is in violation of a person's obligation of care for the public, and it is the basis for most personal injury claims. This duty of care could include hiring and training safe drivers and testing them for drug use and alcohol consumption, and maintaining trucks properly.
Distracted driving - Truck drivers frequently do multiple tasks while on the roads, which can lead to accidents. Distracted driving is considered to be illegal.
Equipment failure is a common cause of accidents. could be the result of a defect in the truck trailer or. It is possible to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the truck, trailer or any component that caused an accident.
Cargo loaders: The companies who load trucks also have the responsibility to ensure that the cargo is properly secured and balanced. Unbalanced or loose cargo may cause a truck driver lose control and cause an accident.
If you or someone you love was injured in a collision with a truck, it is essential to seek out a reputable semi truck accident attorney. They are familiar with these types of cases and can assist you to prove that negligence caused your injuries.
5. Defective design
A qualified attorney should review the semi truck's maintenance records and the records of the manufacturer to determine the cause of an accident. These records can be used by a skilled Louisiana truck accident lawyer to determine design flaws that could be used in an action against a manufacturer.
The law of product liability states that a manufacturer is liable for a defectively designed product when the risk of injury from it could have been prevented by the adoption of a reasonable alternative design. To prove a claim for design defects, the plaintiffs must show that a safer product was available at the time of harm, and that a less dangerous alternative could have avoided the harm without negatively impacting the product's value.
At trucking accident law firms , our founders have a wealth of experience in handling crashworthiness of heavy trucks cases and can assist you to seek compensation for your injuries. If you've suffered injuries or a loved one been killed in an accident caused by a defective truck, please contact our team as soon as possible.
6. Defective maintenance
Maintenance is vital in the trucking industry to ensure the freight and drivers are safe. Incorrect maintenance could lead to brake malfunctions, tire blowouts and other risks. Similarly, defective maintenance can be the reason behind a serious truck accident that results in deaths or injuries.
Maintenance issues are among the most common causes of accidents that involve large trucks. The majority of these accidents can be prevented.
Companies can enhance their performance and decrease failures by planning maintenance. These include following safety procedures and regularly inspecting equipment, and performing routine maintenance.
While it may be difficult to establish a system to manage maintenance, it can save you money and to avoid future accidents. In reality, the cost of preventative maintenance could often be lower than the cost for repairs after an accident.
If you have been injured due to the negligence of a company's maintenance of a commercial or residential property The team at Leav & Steinberg LLP can help you find a solution to your case. Contact us today to learn more about our services. Our legal professionals at our firm have years of experience in premises liability. They will fight to secure maximum compensation.
7. Injuries
The size and weight of a semi-truck could cause severe injuries or even death in a collision an automobile that is a passenger. In some cases the truck's driver and passengers in their vehicle are killed in these collisions.
There are a myriad of injuries that can be sustained from semi truck accidents however the most common ones are broken bones , as well as other traumatic damage. You can sustain minor fractures or even severe Amputations.
Amputations are very serious injuries, as they can lead to permanent nerve damage and infection. They can also be painful and difficult to treat.
Semitruck accidents can lead to severe injuries such as spinal cord injuries. A spinal injury can leave victims with physical and mental impairments that can affect their lives for the rest of their lives.
Neck and head injuries are also commonplace in semi truck accidents. These injuries are caused by the impact of the crash or by flying objects that strike the victim's head or neck. These injuries can cause whiplash or brain injuries depending on the cause of the accident.