Despite the fact that they play an integral role in distributing goods across the continental United States, semi-trucks are some of the most intimidating vehicles on the road due to their size. Accidents involving these vehicles can be devastating, leading many to feel uneasy driving next to or behind these trucks. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the different types of truck accidents to ensure you understand the severity of accidents involving these vehicles. If you’ve been hurt, the following blog also covers how a Broward County truck accident lawyer can assist you in determining liability for the damages you’ve endured due to the negligence of another person.
What Types of Truck Accidents Are Most Common?
When a truck is involved in an accident, it can be incredibly scary due to the sheer size of these vehicles. However, understanding how these accidents happen can help you stay alert and prepared on the road.
The first kind of accident that trucks are often involved in is called a jack-knife accident. These occur when the trailer and cab portion of a semi create a 90-degree angle, often the result of a driver breaking too quickly. This kind of accident can cause the truck to sweep across multiple lanes of traffic, injuring other drivers on the road in the process.
Another kind of accident that trucks may be involved in is rear-end collisions. Though these are common among passenger vehicles, you’ll find that trucks are more susceptible to these kinds of collisions due to the immense weight of the trucks. When a driver needs to stop, they must break early, as these vehicles are front-heavy, meaning it will take longer for them to stop. As such, if a driver is speeding or distracted, they may cause a collision as they are unable to break in time.
Who Can Face Liability?
Unfortunately, determining liability when you’re involved in a collision involving a truck may not be as easy as submitting a claim to the driver’s insurance and receiving a check in the mail. Instead, you’ll find that these accidents can be incredibly complicated, as there are many different factors at play.
Generally, if the driver is to blame, you can hold them and their employer liable. For example, if the driver was asleep at the wheel, it could be due to driving too many hours without taking their mandatory break. If this occurs, you’ll find their employer can be held liable as well.
In addition to the driver and their employer, if any mechanics worked on the vehicle and their actions led to the collision, they can also be held liable. For example, if a tire blowout is to blame for the accident and a mechanic just performed maintenance on the vehicle, they can be held liable in addition to the logistics company. This is because they should have realized there was an issue with the tire that makes the vehicle unsafe for the road.
As you can see, these matters can be incredibly complicated. As such, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through these issues if you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer. When you need assistance, the team at the Finzio Law Group is ready to help you. Connect with us today to learn how our team is ready to fight for the justice you deserve during these complicated matters.
