We’ve mentioned increased dangers on the roads before on the Buttafuoco & Associates blog, including last month’s post on the sharp increase in pedestrian deaths. This month, I’ll discuss one of the most dangerous kinds of accidents on the road: truck accidents. Although large trucks account for only 5% of the vehicles on the road, they account for 10% of vehicles involved in fatal crashes.
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. These accidents involve large, heavy vehicles sharing the road with smaller passenger cars, leading to a significant difference in size, weight, and force.
At Buttafuoco & Associates, our New York truck accident attorneys have witnessed firsthand the severe impact of truck accidents on victims and their families. In this article, I’ll delve into the reasons why truck accidents are serious and what to do if you are injured in this type of car accident.
Size and Weight Disparity
Although it’s true that passenger vehicles are getting bigger and bigger (and thus safer), tractor-trailers and semi-trucks are significantly larger and heavier than any passenger vehicle on the road. In a collision, the sheer size and weight of a commercial truck can cause extensive damage to smaller vehicles, resulting in more severe injuries and property damage.
Increased Stopping Distance
Due to their size and weight, trucks require a longer distance to come to a complete stop. In situations where a truck driver needs to react quickly to avoid an accident, the increased stopping distance can make it more challenging to prevent a collision. This can result in more forceful impacts and a higher likelihood of serious truck accident injuries.
Limited Maneuverability
Commercial trucks have limited maneuverability compared to smaller vehicles. They require significantly more space to navigate turns, change lanes, or merge onto highways. This limited maneuverability can increase the risk of accidents, especially in congested traffic conditions, construction zones, or when drivers fail to account for a truck’s turning radius.
Truck Driver Fatigue and Distraction
Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road, which results in fatigue and drowsiness. In fact, it’s estimated that there are over 5,000 sleep-related fatalities annually from crashes involving commercial truck drivers. Fatigue can impair their judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to operate the vehicle safely. Additionally, distractions such as cell phone use, eating, or adjusting navigation systems, can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Complex Regulations and Industry Pressures
According to our truck accident attorneys in New York, the trucking industry is subject to numerous regulations aimed at promoting safety, such as hours-of-service rules, weight limits, and maintenance requirements. However, some trucking companies may prioritize profit over safety, leading to violations and shortcuts that increase the risk of accidents. Violations of regulations, improper maintenance, or inadequate training can all contribute to the severity of truck crashes.
How Can a Lawyer Help You?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from a truck accident lawyer serving New York. At Buttafuoco & Associates, we have extensive experience in truck accident law and fighting for the rights of victims. An experienced New York truck accident attorney can help you:
- Investigate and gather evidence.
- Determine liability.
- Negotiate with insurance companies.
- Represent you in court in the event of litigation.
Contact our attorney team today to schedule a free consultation and explore your legal options for seeking compensation and justice.
Call 1-800-NOW-HURT.
