Truck Accident Lawyer in Glendale

Causes of a Commercial Trucking Accident

Commercial trucking accidents, particularly involving large 18-wheelers, can be catastrophic. But what are the leading causes of accidents involving these massive vehicles? 

The sheer size of commercial trucks makes them challenging to maneuver, especially on narrow, winding roads. These trucks, often weighing tens of tons, can struggle on roads not designed to handle such heavy loads. 

Additionally, the large size of these vehicles makes it more difficult for drivers to react quickly in emergencies or sudden situations, often found on busy streets. Braking and swerving become hazardous, making it easy to lose control and hard to avoid hitting other vehicles or obstacles.

The following is a short list of some of the most common causes of truck accidents that Glendale multi-car pile-up accident lawyers frequently encounter:

Driver Fatigue 

Driver fatigue is a significant and dangerous issue in the trucking industry, with potentially catastrophic consequences for everyone on the road. Truck drivers often face long hours behind the wheel, leading to exhaustion, slower reaction times, poor decision-making, and an increased likelihood of accidents. Fatigued drivers are more prone to making critical errors that can result in devastating crashes. 

To mitigate these risks, federal regulations have been implemented to limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate their vehicle before being required to take a break or rest. Furthermore, employers must provide proper rest facilities, ensuring drivers get adequate sleep between shifts. When followed correctly, these measures help reduce the dangers associated with driver fatigue and make our roads safer.

Distracted Driving

Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while behind the wheel significantly increases the risk of a fatal crash. These distractions divert the driver’s attention away from the road, impairing their ability to respond quickly to sudden hazards or changes in traffic conditions. In addition to texting or calling, simple tasks like adjusting the radio or eating can cause critical lapses in concentration, leading to devastating accidents and potential wrongful death cases.

Overloading Semi-Trucks

With the supply chain disruptions after the pandemic it has become a common practice for some trucking companies to overload their large trucks to take more loads. Overloading a semi-truck can be extremely dangerous, resulting in fatal crashes when a big rig fails to stop. This is the trucking company’s negligence, and legal action by an attorney will be necessary against the company.

Improper Loading/Unsecured Loads

When a truck’s load is improperly secured, it can shift during transit, increasing the risk of rollovers or loss of control. This can lead to dangerous accidents, especially with large trucks, where even slight shifts in weight can cause swerving or tipping. Proper load securing is critical for the truck driver’s safety and others on the road. If you’ve been injured due to unsecured loads, truck accident lawyers for wrecks caused by unsecured loads can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Poorly Maintained Large Trucks

Fatal truck crashes can occur due to lack of maintenance. For example, brakes not properly serviced or tires needing repair can cause collisions. Another common occurrence is a tire blowout. The tires on a big truck endure a lot of wear and tear. When this high use is paired with infrequent maintenance, the tires have a blowout and can become projectiles on busy roads. 

Flying tires can strike other cars or collide with the truck if the driver loses control after the blowout. Keep a considerable distance away from semi-trucks whenever possible. A big rig can overturn due to a blowout and crash into other vehicles. An overturned big rig can cause many fatalities and can be unstoppable on the freeway.

Unfamiliar Routes/Improper Turning

Navigating unfamiliar roads may increase the chances of an accident due to confusion or lack of knowledge about road conditions. Over 550 out of 3000 cases in which the big rig driver was at fault and caused injuries to pedestrians or other cars were due to unsafe speed. This will be considered negligence on behalf of the operator of that big rig.

Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, and fog pose significant hazards for commercial trucks, making them harder to control and increasing the likelihood of accidents. Slippery roads and reduced visibility can impair a truck driver’s ability to stop or maneuver safely, often leading to severe collisions. These conditions not only endanger the truck driver but also place other motorists at great risk, frequently resulting in life-altering injuries or even fatalities. When weather impacts driving safety, the consequences can be devastating, especially when combined with commercial trucks’ sheer size and weight.

Who is Liable in a Truck Accident?

Insurance Claims and Big Rig Accidents

Determining who is liable in a truck accident can be complex as multiple parties may be involved. The liability could fall on the truck driver, their employer, the trucking company’s contractors, or even the manufacturer of the truck or its cargo. This is why it’s crucial to consult with Glendale truck accident lawyers who are well-versed in trucking laws and have the experience to navigate these intricate cases. Our team can help you understand your options and fight for your rights in court or secure a favorable settlement.

Moving Forward and Filing Claims

Establishing liability is the cornerstone of your claims process. Every party involved in a truck accident has a duty of care, whether it’s the truck driver adhering to traffic laws or the company ensuring their vehicles are properly maintained. Sometimes, more than one party will share responsibility for the crash, and a Glendale truck accident lawyer can help you sort through the complexities of identifying fault. A California Highway Patrol report can be instrumental in clarifying the details and pinpointing who is at fault, especially when multiple parties are involved.

• Was the accident caused by a defect in a specific truck part?
• Did the materials loaded in the trailer create hazardous conditions that led to the crash?
• Was the driver distracted or asleep at the wheel?

In many cases, the trucking company may be held liable, especially when a fault is difficult to pinpoint due to the involvement of multiple parties. Victims often have to deal with several insurance companies, making the process even more overwhelming. That’s why having a dedicated team of truck accident lawyers on your side ensures that your interests are protected as you navigate the claims process.

Compensation and Damages in a Big Rig Crash

If you’ve been injured in a big rig accident, compensation is key to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. You may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Additionally, you could recover compensation for future lost earnings and pain and suffering caused by the negligence of those involved. Our truck accident law firm treats clients like family, fighting tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve after a truck accident or big rig crash. With no upfront costs, you can trust that we’ll only charge if we win your case. Schedule a free consultation today to learn how our experienced truck accident lawyers can help you navigate your case.