Tractor Trailer Accidents

It’s estimated that there are at least 2.2 million tractor trailers currently on U.S. roads. These massive vehicles are integral when it comes to commerce, as they routinely carry items like food, health supplies, clothing, home essentials, and other goods.

While truck drivers are obligated to undergo extensive training and testing before receiving their commercial driving licenses, collisions still occur due to truck driver negligence and also negligence by trucking companies in failing to safely hire, train or supervise their drivers. These accidents often cause extensive damage to passenger vehicles due to size disparities and high speeds. That’s why truckers must take every precaution to keep themselves and others safe and secure on the road.

Why Do Tractor Trailer Accidents Commonly Happen?

Vehicular accidents happen for all sorts of reasons, but driver error is the most common occurrence. Accordingly, trucking accidents can happen because of:

• Distracted Driving – Texting while driving, eating behind the wheel, adjusting a radio, and setting a GPS system are all examples of driving distractions. They take attention away from the road, which can lead to a truck driver making a dangerous maneuver or failing to identify a road hazard before it’s too late.

• Intoxication – Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol impairs judgment and eye coordination. It also decreases response time, which hinders a driver’s ability to make split-second decisions when on the road.

• Driver Fatigue – Working long hours can easily lead to fatigue and drowsiness. While truckers are restricted from driving too many hours consecutively, these laws are sometimes neglected in an effort to make more runs and earn more money.

• Speeding – Speeding not only increases the risk of being involved in an accident, it also increases the risk of severe injuries and expensive property damage. Speeding tractor trailers are particularly dangerous since it takes longer for these vehicles to come to a complete stop.

Do I Need an Attorney After a Tractor Trailer Accident?

Seeking out professional legal guidance is a must if you’ve experienced serious injuries, such as fractures, back or neck trauma, head injury, or wrongful death. You should also consult with an attorney if your injuries could be debilitating for an extended period of time or may be permanent in order to ensure the amount of compensation you receive reflects the harms you suffered.

Martinez, Hart, Thompson & Sanchez, P.C. proudly advocate on behalf of our clients when going up against large trucking companies. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our compassionate legal team.

You can also call 505-343-1776 if you’d like more information on our firm.