5 Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents
We share the road with 18-wheeler trucks everyday. The risks associated with an 18-wheeler accident are greater than most other vehicle collisions due to their massive size and the increased number of blind spots.
Why, exactly, are there so many trucking accidents? Below are 5 common causes of 18-wheeler accidents.
Remember, if you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, then turn to the attorneys at Wolfe Jones. Allow us to learn more about your accident and see if we can help you get the compensation you deserve!
#1 Excessive Schedule Expectations
Truck drivers often have unrealistic schedules. They can be encouraged to drive for too many consecutive hours, causing driver fatigue. This can lead to poor decision making or even falling asleep at the wheel.
#2 Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is dangerous for any driver. Using a cellphone to text or look up an address while driving can cause the truck driver to take their eyes off of the road long enough to result in a terrible accident. Anything that takes a driver’s attention off of the road is incredibly dangerous, especially when you are driving an 18-wheeler.
#3 “Minor” Traffic Violations
We often tend to think of traffic violations such as speeding, tailgating, and failure to signal as minor. There are no “minor” traffic violations when it comes to an 18-wheeler.
A tractor trailer truck can’t stop as quickly as a smaller vehicle. If one were to be speeding or tailgating, and the driver in front of them had to brake quickly, an accident would most likely occur.
#4 Jackknifing
Jackknifing is when the trailer being pulled by the 18-wheeler skids forward, giving the truck the appearance of a folding pocket knife. This can be caused by improper braking procedures, faulty equipment, or poor road conditions, such as an ice-covered bridge. There are devices to combat jackknifing, but none of them carry a 100% success rate.
#5 Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Often times, 18-wheeler drivers are driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs that impair their ability to safely operate an 18-wheeler. These truck drivers place other drivers at serious risk of death or injury.
Trucking companies are subject to strict federal regulations designed to prevent this from happening. But when a truck driver was driving under the influence, it is often best to have an experienced attorney to help investigate, uncover, and hold truck drivers accountable for their reckless behavior.
Involved in an 18-Wheeler Accident? We Can Help!
If you have been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so see a doctor even if you feel ok. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
If the accident was the fault of the 18-wheeler, you need to act quickly to ensure the evidence is properly preserved!
After an accident, gathering the proper evidence and documentation can seem overwhelming. This is especially true if you sustained any injuries. The truck accident lawyers at Wolfe Jones can help you navigate this process. We have experience representing people who have been injured in 18-wheeler accidents and are familiar with the steps that need to be taken to ensure your rights are protected.
Along those lines, do not accept any settlements without getting the advice of a trained legal professional. Insurance companies aren’t always looking out for your best interests. You need an attorney that has your welfare in mind.
Don’t Wait. Call Today!
If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident that wasn’t your fault, you need legal assistance.
Contact the 18-wheeler wreck attorneys at Wolfe Jones today for a consultation. We will look out for your best interests and help you receive the compensation you deserve!
No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
