Types of trucking accidents

Almost two million semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and tractor trailers travel our country's freeways and highways, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The commercial trucking industry is strictly regulated by state and federal laws, but negligence and carelessness occur all too frequently. Most trucking accidents involve human error. Chanfrau & Chanfrau's personal injury attorneys are experienced in handling trucking accident cases, and know how to best help victims of these types of tragic accidents. If you have been involved in an accident with a big rig, bus, or firetruck, contact us for a free consultation. You can also learn more about various types of trucking accidents during an appointment at our Daytona Beach-area firm. We represent victims on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing until a settlement or verdict award is received.

Semi-trucks in parking lot — Accidents between these multi-ton commercial trucks and smaller vehicles are common, and among the most deadly for the occupants of cars and pick-ups.

Common Accidents

Accidents between these multi-ton commercial trucks and smaller vehicles are common, and among the most deadly for the occupants of cars and pick-ups. In 2012 alone, 214 fatalities involving a commercial truck occurred in the state, with 185 deaths attributed to victims in the smaller vehicle. Common types of truck accidents that can impact motorists and cause injury or wrongful death include:

Rollovers - One of the most common mishaps, a truck can tip over onto its side or roof. Factors such as excess speed, steep inclines and declines, top heavy overloads, or a jackknife contribute to these accidents.
Jackknife - When a tractor-trailer's brakes lock up, the trailer can skid, swinging out to a 90-degree angle from the cab.
Rear-end and Under-ride Collisions - A truck needs more time than a car to come to a complete stop, and excess speed can result in an accident. Sometimes it is the car that rear-ends the truck or slides underneath the rear trailer in an under-ride collision.
Head-on and Side Impact - Most accidents involving big rigs and cars occur on undivided two-lane highways. When a driver uses excessive speed or carelessly changes lanes, head-on collisions or sideswipe accidents can result.
Runaway Truck - If a truck's brakes fail, the driver is unable to stop. Particularly on a steep incline, these horrific accidents can involve multiple vehicles.
Tire Blowout - The motor carrier and driver are responsible for closely monitoring the condition of a truck's tires. When a huge truck experiences a tire blowout, the driver can easily lose control.
Lost Cargo Load - When a truck's cargo is not properly secured, large, deadly objects may fall off or out of the truck, causing an accident. An overloaded truck also impacts the vehicle's center of gravity and the driver's ability to steer, which can end up in a rollover.

Insurance Representatives and Compensation

If you are the victim of an accident with a commercial truck, our attorneys can help you seek compensation for trucking industry negligence or product liability for faulty equipment. After a collision, victims may be inundated with contact from the trucking company's insurance representatives. Insurance companies are in danger of losing massive amounts of money, and will vigorously work to protect their interests. It is of vital importance that you contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies. We will fight for your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Schedule a Consultation

Our truck accident attorneys have decades of experience handling all types of personal injury claims. Our lawyers are familiar with Florida no-fault insurance laws and are skilled litigators in all types of auto accident cases. We will aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation and case review.