Many people in Utah worry daily about getting home safely when they are on the road, especially when traveling on the highway alongside many semi-trucks. Even though truck drivers, as a whole, are often safer vehicle operators than most of the other public transportations, the size, weight, and volume of a semi-truck can lead to car accidents that are extremely catastrophic and brutally lethal. It is far more likely to be seriously injured in a car crash involving a large mini-van. There are also a few factors that can make trucking accidents more likely to happen on the road.
Studies showing the risks of 18 wheelers
Some studies have shown almost 50% of truck collisions that lead to severe injuries or even fatalities; the truck drivers were at fault for the accident. The most common reason these accidents happen is because of excessive speeds, not being aware of the increased stopping distance due to their massive weight and size of the truck. In most cases, the truck driver is likely to have been going over the speed limit; if not, they will likely be going too fast for the weather like rain, snow, or sleet. Wet roads are already so dangerous and make semi-trucks stopping distance even longer while sleet and ice make it extremely easy for trucks that are going way to fast to jack-knife into someone, potentially even tip over.
It is essential to address maintenance issues as other studies state that almost 30% of those severe truck crashes involve semi-trucks with faulty brakes. The breaks may have been too old, poorly maintained, or adjusted improperly to work correctly. Trucking companies also may be trying to save money by neglecting to keep proper brake standard safety. Defective brakes combined with speeding is a severe danger that truckers, and their companies, impose on other vehicles on the road.
How to recover from a truck accident
When someone is involved in a trucking accident, they may face serious injuries, lifelong disabilities, or even death as a result. A personal injury lawyer can help you pursue justice against the irresponsible trucking companies and allow you to receive compensation for any lost wages, medical bills, non-economical damages, and more. Contact a lawyer at the Ault Firm today to receive a consultation; contact our office at (801) 839-4411.
