4 Leading Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Georgia
Truck accidents are often terrifying, leaving significant damage in their wake. From vehicle repairs to medical bills, these collisions come at a high cost. Commercial vehicles are used to transport freight across the country, and while they keep the supply chain moving, they are also the cause of far too many accidents. In fact, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there are more than 100,000 injury-causing truck crashes each year – with about 5,000 resulting in fatalities. So, what us the cause of truck accidents and why can be done for better safety?
Let’s examine!
Given the prevalence of commercial truck accidents, it comes as no surprise that trucking companies keep a team of skilled attorneys at the ready. They are trained to respond immediately, doing all they can to divert the blame and protect the trucking company’s reputation.
That’s why, if you are involved in a truck crash, it is crucial to have a semi-truck accident lawyer on your side. Here at Ross Moore Law, our team is equipped to handle complex cases like yours – and to take on the trucking company. We will fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your personal injury case so schedule your free consultation today!
Top Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Here are the leading causes of semi-truck accidents (also known as commercial trucks or large trucks):
Driver Error
The leading cause of truck accidents is driver error. Top cause of truck accidents are related to the driver’s actions, a truck operator’s negligence is often to blame. Furthermore, one of the following factors lead to them creating an unfortunate accident:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while distracted
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Misjudging other vehicles’ speed
- Driving while drowsy or falling asleep behind the wheel
- Following passenger vehicles too closely
- Drifting off the road or into other lanes
Brake Failure or Vehicle Malfunction
Another cause of truck accidents is simply malfunctions and failed parts, this is why proper tractor trailer maintenance is key. But – many trucking companies sacrifice routine maintenance to keep their fleet on the road. With profit as their priority, they may fail to keep their commercial vehicles road-ready, often resulting in brake failure, tire blowouts, broken taillights and more. These preventable issues can have catastrophic impacts, especially because, due to their size and weight, trucks require longer stopping distances and are more prone to rolling over. This not only puts the truck driver at risk, but everyone else who shares the roadways.
Weather and Road Conditions
Inclement weather and low visibility increase the risk of a wreck. Unfortunately, many truck drivers stay on the road during dangerous conditions to avoid missing a drop-off deadline. Driving too quickly in a storm or on slippery roads can result in a serious truck crash.
Improper Loading
Trucks laden with cargo face a higher risk of accidents, especially if the freight is not loaded properly. If the weight of the truck is not distributed evenly, semi-trucks can roll over if they speed or take a turn too quickly. Plus, cargo can fall out, causing rear-end collisions.
Common Types of Semi-Truck Accidents in Georgia
Our personal injury law firm has handled a wide variety of truck accident cases. We are familiar with the different types of semi-truck accidents, and we’re eager to put our extensive experience to work for you!
Research shows that the most common types of truck crashes are:
- Rear-end accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Unsecured cargo accidents
- Tire blowouts
- Multi-vehicle accidents
- Side impact crashes
- Rollovers
- Underride accidents (vehicle pushed underneath a truck)
- Jackknife accidents (cab and truck form a 90-degree angle)
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Semi-Truck Accident?
There are often multiple parties involved in semi-truck accident cases, which is just one reason why they are so complex. Proving fault can be very difficult, so we recommend seeking trusted legal advice from a reputable law office.
Several different parties can be liable, including:
- Driver
- Truck company
- Cargo/shipping company that loaded the truck
- Defective vehicle or part manufacturer
- Truck maintenance company
Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers can help gather the evidence needed to hold the at-fault party accountable. We will investigate your accident, communicate with the trucking company’s insurance company, and work to recover the damages you deserve – including compensation for medical expenses, car repairs, pain and suffering, and more. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’ll file a personal injury lawsuit and prepare for trial.
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Call Your Trusted Atlanta Semi-Truck Accident Attorney and We Will Fight for You!
If you or a loved one have been impacted by a semi- truck accident, call Attorney Ross Moore today! Our team of trusted accident lawyers is here to help, starting with your free consultation.
Here at Ross Moore Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means that you will not be required to pay any of our legal fees unless we can make a recovery on your behalf! To learn more, contact Ross Moore Law today!
Conveniently located in Atlanta, GA, we’re proud to serve accident victims throughout the region – including Marietta, Athens, Downtown Alpharetta and Atlanta, Georgia. We provide support for the following topics:
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