Truckers have responsibilities towards fellow travelers as they transport their cargo all around the country. The semitrucks they operate are large and heavy, especially when they’re fully loaded with cargo. As such, accidents involving these vehicles can result in significant damage.
For example, wrecks between semitrucks and smaller vehicles can lead to catastrophic injuries for crash victims. Victims may choose to seek compensation for the financial damages they’re dealing with, if the collision at issue was caused by the negligence of at least one other party. Part of this process involves determining the cause of the crash so that victims can name appropriate defendants in their cases.
Policies of the trucking company
Trucking companies often want to promise short deadlines for deliveries to keep clients happy. While that might seem like a good business practice, it’s highly unsafe. Unrealistic deadlines can push truckers to drive longer than they’re allowed by the hours of service regulations. This can lead to fatigued driving. They may also be encouraged to speed to meet the deadlines.
Actions of the trucker
Truckers need to be in the right shape to drive safely. When they have other things going on, they may not be able to focus on their driving duties, which can turn their rig into a major hazard. Distractions, such as checking text messages, are dangerous. Fatigued driving, which can stem from driving at night or driving too long, can negatively affect driving abilities. Impairment, from alcohol, illegal substances, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs, can lead to delayed reaction times.
Improper truck maintenance and cargo securement
Proper maintenance of semitrucks is essential for preventing accidents. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts or engine problems, can lead to catastrophic crashes, especially at higher speeds. Improperly secured cargo is another primary danger of semitrucks. Cargo that’s not secure can shift and cause the trucker to lose control of the rig. It may even break loose and become a flying projectile that strikes another vehicle or becomes a hazard in the road.
Victims of semitruck crashes only have a limited time to seek compensation. Getting a case together swiftly is critical, but the claim must be comprehensive in order to be effective. As such, seeking personalized legal guidance is generally a wise first step.