Why You Need a Semi Truck Accident Attorney
A semi truck accident lawyer could be required if you or someone you care about has been injured by a car crash. Since these accidents are unique, you'll want someone who is knowledgeable about the specific laws and regulations that govern commercial trucks.
There are many parties that are liable in the event of a truck accident, including the driver, the trucking company, the manufacturer, and so on. A good lawyer will be in a position to guide you through these areas and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
1. Human error
Human error is a major factor in truck accidents. In fact, 87 percent of truck accidents are caused by some type of error. This is because most people aren't aware of all the aspects involved in getting a large truck or 18-wheeler on the road and maintaining its safety.
In addition, truck drivers who work for long hours without getting enough rest could cause fatal accidents. In fact, research shows that 30 percent of all truck accident fatalities are the result of fatigued drivers.
Truckers must adhere to all state and federal regulations regarding how long they are allowed to drive in a day and how much sleep they must get before they can drive again. This helps prevent accidents from occurring in the first place and also ensures the safety of other drivers.
However, human error is a complicated issue that involves many different people and circumstances. It is difficult to determine who is responsible for the accident and the amount you are entitled to for your injuries. An experienced attorney who specializes in large truck accidents can help you determine who is legally responsible for your injuries.
2. Defective equipment
Large industrial equipment and machinery are susceptible to a variety of problems, such as malfunctioning safety devices as well as defective components. Accidents caused by equipment that isn't working can turn a simple working day into a fatal or life-threatening situation for workers and those who are around them.
A malfunctioning equipment can also result in financial damages and even damage to a company's reputation. Defective ladders can cause injuries and falls, while faulty insulation can cause electrocution or burns.
The defects in the trailer or truck components can pose a risk to other drivers. For example a brake system that is not working properly may make it difficult for a truck driver to steer the vehicle.
This can result in a variety of truck accidents, including rear-end collisions and collisions with other trucks. Brakes can fail due to a manufacturing defect or due a lack of maintenance by the owner or mechanic.
In some instances manufacturers can be held responsible for the defective equipment. If the defect in a piece of equipment is the cause of an accident, a semi truck accident lawyer may seek compensation from the manufacturer.
3. Long hours
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates the number of hours truckers are able to work each week. These limits are designed to avoid fatigue that can lead to numerous accidents.
Many truck drivers don't stick to the rules. To meet the company's mileage targets, they push themselves to the edge of these limits. This can result in numerous issues such as overworked drivers and driving habits that are unpredictable, and a higher chance of accidents.
Long commutes and a insufficient amount of sleep can result in long hours, and a decrease in your capability to complete tasks in time. These causes can lead to stress and burnout , which could have a significant impact on your ability perform at an elite level.
Despite the dangers of working for long hours, it's important to remember that you're entitled to an equal chance to be treated with respect. The best way to protect yourself is by hiring an experienced attorney for semi truck accidents.
A good lawyer can help you make an insurance claim, recover damages, or prove negligence on behalf of the liable parties. A good lawyer will look over your case and determine the most effective way to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
4. Negligence
Negligence refers to any action that breaches a person's duty of care for the public, and it is the foundation for most personal injury lawsuits. This duty of responsibility could include hiring and training safe drivers as well as testing them for drug use and alcohol consumption, and maintaining trucks properly.
Distracted driving - Truck drivers often have multiple tasks to complete while on the roads, which can lead to accidents. It is crucial to observe all laws regarding driving distracted.
Failure of equipment - In certain cases, a defect in the trailer or truck itself could be the cause of an accident. It is possible to bring a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the trailer, truck or the component parts that caused an accident.
best truck accident lawyer - Companies who load trucks also have the responsibility to ensure that the cargo is secured and balanced. Incorrect or unbalanced cargo could cause a truck driver lose control and could cause an accident.
If you or someone you love was injured in a truck accident, it is essential to consult a skilled semi truck accident attorney. They are aware of how to investigate these cases and help establish that negligence was the cause of your injuries.
5. Defective design
If a semi truck is involved in an accident, it is crucial that a professional examines the truck's maintenance record and records from the manufacturer of the vehicle to determine the cause of the crash. A seasoned Louisiana truck accident attorney will utilize these information to discover design flaws which can be used as evidence in lawsuits against the manufacturer.
The law of product liability states that a manufacturer is liable for a product that is defectively designed in cases where the reasonably anticipated risks of injury resulting from it could have been prevented by the adoption of an alternative design. To establish a claim of design defect plaintiffs must demonstrate that a safer model existed at the time of the injury and that a less hazardous alternative would have prevented the injury without impacting the utility of the product.
At McCartney Stucky LLC, our founders have years of experience in handling crashworthiness of heavy trucks cases and can help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Contact our team immediately in the event that you or a loved one have been hurt by a defective truck.
6. Defective maintenance
In the trucking industry, maintenance is key to keep drivers and freight moving safely. Improper maintenance can lead to brake malfunctions, tire blowouts and other hazards. Defective maintenance can also lead to serious truck accidents that result in injury or even death.
Large trucks are often involved in accidents due to inadequate maintenance. Fortunately, most of these accidents are preventable.
Companies can improve their performance and decrease failures by planning maintenance. These include following safety guidelines, inspecting equipment regularly, and performing routine maintenance.
The process of creating a comprehensive maintenance plan isn't easy, but it can also help save money and prevent further accidents. Preventative maintenance is often cheaper than having to pay for repairs after an incident.
If you've been injured in an accident caused by the carelessness of a business's maintenance of a commercial or residential property our team at Leav & Steinberg LLP can help you find a solution to your case. Contact us to find out more about our services. The legal professionals of our firm have extensive experience in premises liability. They will fight to ensure maximum compensation.
7. Injuries
A semi truck's size and weight can cause severe injuries or even death if it collisions with a vehicle for passengers. In some instances, the truck's driver as well as the passengers in their vehicle are killed in these crashes.
While there are numerous kinds of injuries that could occur in a semi truck accident, the most common are broken bones as well as other injuries that are traumatic. Injuries can range from minor fractures up to Amputations.
Amputations can cause nerve damage permanent nerve damage and even infections. They can be extremely painful and difficult to treat.
Spinal cord injuries are a different type of serious injury that can happen in an accident involving a semi-truck. A spinal cord injury can cause physical and cognitive impairments that last a life time.
Head and neck injuries are also common in semi truck accidents. These injuries may be caused by the impact of the crash or flying objects that strike the victim's neck or head. These injuries can cause whiplash, or traumatic brain injuries depending on the cause of the accident.