Founding Attorney
Large trucks, such a semis, big rigs, and tractor-trailers, are a common sight on U.S. roads and highways. In fact, the trucking industry represents an essential part of the country’s economy. Did you know that around 13% of all motor vehicles on the roads are large commercial trucks? While we all may be familiar with driving near these oversized vehicles, we may not be fully aware of how dangerous they just may be. There are several very common types of truck accidents, and all can have devastating impacts on drivers and vehicle occupants involved.
What Are the Most Common Kinds of Truck Accidents?
One common type of large commercial truck accident is the rear-end collision. Due to the sheer weight and magnitude of these vehicles, they require more stopping distance than other vehicles on the road. This means that if a truck driver underestimates the amount of distance needed to effectively stop behind a car or if he or she is simply going too fast or not paying attention, a rear-end collision can be the result.
Jackknife accidents are not only a common type of truck accident but also one that is unique to these oversized vehicles. A truck is said to jackknife when it is forced to brake suddenly and the trailer behind the truck swings out to a ninety-degree angle. Jackknifing essentially causes the driver to lose control over the vehicle. This can cause serious damage to both the truck and to other vehicles on the road. It is common for the truck to end up overturning which can also present a substantial roadway danger.
Blindspot accidents are also quite common for large trucks. This is due, in large part, to the fact that large commercial trucks have substantially sized blind spots located in the back, front, driver side, and passenger side of the vehicle. When a vehicle is driving in the truck’s blind spot, the truck driver will not be able to see it. This means that the truck could change lanes into the other vehicle or directly into the other vehicle’s path, brake too suddenly for the car behind it to avoid a collision, or not brake in time to avoid hitting a vehicle located in the front blind spot.
Brakes can be a common contributing factor in truck accidents. In fact, brake failure is a common cause of truck accidents. Improperly installed or poorly maintained brakes present a unique danger. Fully functioning brakes are vital to the safe operation of these oversized vehicles. Brake failure can also be due to overheating stemming from overuse or the need to stop suddenly when traveling at high speeds.
Failure to brake properly is also a common cause of truck accidents. Truck drivers receive special training on how to properly use the brakes on large commercial vehicles. That is because proper brake usage is important to maintaining the integrity of the brakes. Truck drivers cannot simply slam on the brakes. This could lead to brake failure, jackknifing, or an overturned truck.
Personal Injury Attorney
Have you been involved in an accident with a large commercial vehicle? These types of accidents can lead to tragic results. If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of an accident caused by a large commercial truck, get in touch with trusted personal injury attorney Michael LoGiudice. Contact us today.