Studies have consistently shown that truck accidents are some of the most fatal vehicle accidents in Indiana and across the country. In most cases, the people in the passenger vehicle end up being the ones to lose their lives rather than the truck driver. For this reason, it’s important to pay attention when driving alongside a large truck on the highway. Looking away from the road for even a split second could result in a deadly accident.
What makes truck accidents more likely to end in fatalities?
The enormous size of trucks makes truck accidents particularly fatal. A large truck could easily weigh 30 times as much as a traditional passenger vehicle.
Additionally, trucks are much more difficult to control. If the driver hits the brakes, the truck could skid across the road 40% farther than a passenger vehicle. Trucks also have difficulty making sharp turns and can tip over if the driver gets caught off guard. If the roads are wet or icy, driving a large truck becomes even more dangerous.
Driver fatigue is a major cause of truck accidents. Many truckers have to drive for hours a day and stay awake past typical bedtimes. As a result, they become drowsy at the wheel and start to lose sight of their surroundings. If a trucker falls asleep at the wheel, the results could be deadly.
How can you get help if you’re the victim of a truck accident?
Every year, thousands of people die in truck accidents throughout the United States. Trucks are much deadlier than passenger vehicle, and if you’ve been involved in a collision, you might be experiencing serious consequences. Some victims end up permanently disabled.
If you want to seek compensation, an attorney may be able to help you negotiate with the driver’s insurance company. They might also help you file a lawsuit if your claim is denied.
