For help with your truck accident case, contact VG Law Group today and schedule a free consultation with an Orlando truck accident attorney.
Even with the numerous 18-wheelers out on the roads and highways, no one thinks about being in a truck accident, let alone surviving one. However, motorists do encounter those gigantic vehicles all the time on numerous roads across the nation. Truck accidents can be catastrophic and usually result in long-lasting effects. These vehicles weigh 20 to 30 times more than other types of vehicles and are also much larger. That means they can sweep other trucks, SUVs, and cars off of the road, which leaves behind wreckage and often death.
It also isn't surprising to learn that commercial trucks cannot stop as quickly as other vehicles. It is tough for the drivers to react to sudden traffic changes as quickly as truck, SUV, or car drivers can. Most people are aware that commercial trucks are part of many fatal auto accidents. However, the actual numbers might be surprising. In 2018, large commercial trucks caused 9% of all fatal car accidents, and 71% of individuals who die in crashes involving a passenger vehicle and large truck were the occupant of the passenger vehicle..
One of the most common causes of a truck accident is drivers and trucking companies pushing beyond their limits. Unfortunately, some drivers continue to drive even when they are tired, mishandle their trailers, or overlook proper maintenance, which can result in accidents. The following are some of the other reasons that can cause an 18-wheeler accident:
Although situations can vary, there are certain basic steps that you should take if you are involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler:
- Prioritize your own safety as well as your family members and the occupants of other vehicles. If you think that anyone has sustained injuries, immediately seek medical attention. Whenever possible, injured people should be taken to the emergency room for scans and treatment. Call 911 as soon a possible after an 18-wheel accident occurs, and seek medical help so that the extent of any injuries can be assessed and the appropriate treatment administered.
- Collect details on the trucking company and truck driver.
- Obtain copies of the truck driver's insurance, vehicle registration, and driver's license.
- Record accounts from witnesses and exchange contact information with them.
- Record videos and take photos of the accident scene and any vehicles involved in the accident. This evidence is critical since trucking companies and insurance companies tend to arrive at the accident scene immediately. If not recorded right away, witnesses might forget important details from their accounts over time.
- If there is a dashcam on your vehicle, save the video so that it is not recorded over.
- Never share any details with an insurance company about the accident until you have talked to an Orlando truck accident attorney.
Truck Driver
A truck driver can be held liable for an 18-wheeler accident if it can be proven that they behaved in a reckless or negligent manner. For instance, if a truck driver was texting while driving or speeding, he might be held liable for the accident.
Trucking Company
It is also possible for a trucking company to be held liable for an 18-wheeler accident if it was the result of a negligent act by the company, as long as the accident took place while the truck driver was on duty. Truck companies can also be held liable for an accident resulting from careless supervision, improper training, or negligent hiring.
Other Driver(s)
It is also possible for other drivers out on the road to be held liable for an 18-wheeler accident. One example could be when a third-party driver swerves recklessly and causes a large truck to crash into other vehicles. If this occurs, you might qualify to file a claim against that driver.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of vehicle parts can also be held legally responsible for these types of accidents. A manufacturer could have supplied trucking companies with defective or broken vehicle parts. For example, a defective tire could cause a trucking accident. In this situation, the company that sold or manufactured the tire could be held liable. However, it can be challenging to provide that a manufacturer was responsible. That is why it is critical to get help from an experienced Orlando truck accident attorney before filing a lawsuit.
If you have sustained injuries as a result of an 18-wheeler accident, contact our team. Our truck accident attorneys at VG Law Group handle trucking accidents on a regular basis. Call today and ensure that your legal rights are protected.
