Injured in a Truck Accident?
According to the United States Department of Transportation, (USDOT) 12 percent of all traffic accidents or 500,000 per year involve trucks transporting goods across the U.S. resulting in about 5,000 fatalities. A semi truck hauling a tractor-trailer can be over 70 feet long and weigh up to 80,000 pounds. As a passenger in a small car, your chances of surviving an accident with a semi truck are about two percent.
Truck drivers receive extensive training in long distance driving and accident prevention. The drivers of passenger cars are at fault in about 75 percent of accidents involving trucks. On the occasions when truck drivers are responsible for accidents, causes are often due to the driver’s lack of sleep or mechanical problems.
Many different factors contribute to trucking accidents, including
- brake and tire failures
- load exceeds truck’s capacity
- load not secured and shifts truck’s center of balance causing overturns
- poor maintenance leading to inspection failure
- speeding or breaking other traffic laws
- driver sleep-deprived or under the influence of alcohol
- poor visibility when backing up
Passenger drivers can take precautions when traveling near large trucks such as not following too closely and giving trucks adequate room to maneuver in traffic. In the event of a collision with a truck, record details of the accident and names and numbers of any witnesses.
In cases of truck driver negligence, our personal injury attorneys will seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, wrongful death and property damage. If the driver works for a corporation, the employer is also liable for damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving semi trucks, contact the Ohio law firm of O’Connor Acciani & Levy Co., LPA and speak to our truck accident attorneys. Our lawyers will ensure that your settlement is proportional to the damages you have suffered.
We have over 27 years of experience to answer your questions and present the options available to you. Call us today for a FREE evaluation of your case at 513-842-9029, or toll free at 877-288-3241 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.For more information on truck accidents please visit our Cincinnati Car Accident page
Court costs and case expenses by law are responsibility of the client.
