Truck Accidents

The trucking industry is a big one in the United States, generating about 255.5 billion dollars per annum and employing an estimated 8.9 million people in trucking-related jobs. Of these, nearly 3.5 million are drivers. Unfortunately, trucks also pose a potential for severe accidents on the road. Because of their size, trucks tend to be in more severe accidents than other vehicles, with injuries sustained more powerful and life-altering.

The United States Department of Transportation estimates that over 500,000 truck accidents occur every year. Nearly 5,000 of this number dies every year. Funnily, in the bulk of these accidents (more than 75%), the at-fault driver is usually the passenger vehicle. Only 16% of all truck accidents happen with the truck driver being at fault.

This disparity could be because of the stringent recruitment process prospective truck drivers go through before they make the cut. Thus, they tend to be more careful on the highways than other drivers.

Nevertheless, truck accidents still happen, and when they happen, they typically leave a trail of devastated people behind. From multiple numbers of victims to the families of those victims, lots of people’s lives are dramatically affected when a truck accident happens. If you or your loved one has been injured in a truck accident, reach out to Sean Bannon today. He may not be able to give you your life back the way it was, but he will do everything in his power to ensure that the life you live going forward from the accident is as “whole” as he can make it.

Types Of Truck Accidents

Head-On Collisions

These types of accidents happen when a large truck collides head-on with another vehicle. They often occur when a truck driver suddenly swerves into the other land, giving the other driver little room to stop in time to avoid the collision. They usually happen when a truck driver, fatigued from long hours behind the wheel, dozes off momentarily and loses control of the truck.

Jackknife Accidents

Trucks are typically made up of two parts: the cab where the driver is and the trailer, which rides behind the cab. Both parts are connected by a hitch, a moveable joint that acts as a pivot. When the truck driver turns, this hitch pivots and helps the trailer negotiate the required turn. Jackknife accidents happen when a truck driver brakes suddenly and, instead of their trailers stopping, swing out to a ninety-degree angle. Thus, they present considerable danger for other vehicles on the road.

Blindspot Accidents

Large trucks have more significant blind spots than smaller vehicles. As a result, smaller vehicles in the blind spots of trucks tend to be in greater danger of accidents.

Roll-Over Accidents

Roll-over accidents happen when a truck driver loses control of the vehicle, causing the cab and its trailer to roll over and harm other vehicles on the road.

Rear-End Collisions And Underride Accidents

A rear-end collision happens when a vehicle in front of a truck makes a sudden stop. Trucks cannot come to a halt as quickly as other smaller vehicles. So even if the truck driver hits his brake immediately, the truck may not stop in time to avoid colliding with the vehicle in front.

An underride accident is another deadly type of rear-end collision. It differs from typical rear-end collisions because it typically involves a smaller vehicle rear-ending a truck. This accident is more lethal because the smaller vehicle usually slides and gets stuck under the truck. In addition, the top of the smaller vehicle is often ripped off, proving fatal to its driver and any passengers present.

Reach Out To Us To Help You With Your Truck Accident Case Today

Sean Bannon has extensive experience in personal injury matters, representing clients in cases involving car and truck accidents, product defects, medical malpractice, and claims of wrongful death. He knows what buttons to push to get you the compensation you deserve in your truck accident case. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with him by calling 503-746-3240 today.