The Dangers of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
There are many types of vehicles on the road, and at any time, any one of those vehicles may become involved in an accident or collision. While these accidents pose a potential threat to all of the other automobiles on the road, there are few that pose as severe a threat as 18-wheeler trucks. These large commercial trucks outweigh and outsize just about every other vehicle on the road, meaning that truck accidents often result in severe damage and serious injury. This is especially true when accidents involve smaller, more vulnerable cars or motorcycles. The auto accident attorneys at Chanfrau & Chanfrau understand how seriously 18-wheeler truck accidents can impact our Daytona Beach, FL clients, and we are ready to fight to ensure that the rights of accident victims are protected, and that just compensation is provided.
Types of Trucking Accidents
As with any other type of vehicle, there are several types of accidents that an 18-wheeler truck may be involved in. However, the size, weight, and distribution of cargo increase the risks of these accidents and make certain types of collisions more likely. Below are some common types of 18-wheeler trucking accidents:
- Roll-over accidents
- Side swipes
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end impacts
Truck accidents are more common than many realize, and in 2012, these accidents accounted for 214 fatalities in Florida alone. Of those 214, 185 were the death of occupants of smaller vehicles that had been involved in the truck accident.
Causes of Truck Accidents
As with any type of automobile accident, there are many potential causes for an 18-wheeler truck accident. However, because of the potential risk and threat of a truck accident, drivers of these vehicles are held to certain standards. It is important that truck drivers undergo thorough training and be willing and able to follow the rules and safety regulations that are set for truck drivers. Failure to do so may cause a serious accident. Below are other common causes of 18-wheeler truck accidents:
- Driver fatigue
- Driver recklessness or carelessness
- Speeding
- Driver distraction
- Driving under the influence
- Improper or insufficient training
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Vehicle or equipment malfunction
Any of these accident causes may be enough to prove culpability on the part of a truck driver or trucking company, and can be the strong foundation in a case for financial compensation.
Collecting Damages
The size and weight of 18-wheeler trucks make them especially dangerous should an accident occur. Trucking accidents are likely to result in serious injury, or even death, not to mention vehicular damage. The damage of an 18-wheeler trucking accident may include emotional and physical pain and suffering, as well as financial losses related to property damage, medical expenses, and lost wages. The attorneys at Chanfrau & Chanfrau can help victims evaluate damages suffered and assist in the fight for just financial compensation.
Contact Us
If you’ve been the victim of a trucking accident, it is important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that your legal rights are protected. Contact the auto accident attorneys at Chanfrau & Chanfrau at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case and find out how we can help.