People who are struck by a semi-truck will often suffer from catastrophic injuries. If this occurs, they need to determine the cause of the crash so they can name the appropriate parties as defendants in the claim.
There are several causes they may need to consider as they’re trying to determine how to proceed. Some of the more common causes have to do with things the trucker does and the condition of the semi-truck.
Trucker’s actions
Trucker fatigue is a prevalent issue because it leads to slower reaction times and impaired judgment. Regulations mandate rest periods, but non-compliance remains a problem.
Distracted driving diverts the trucker’s attention from the roadway. Given the complexity of operating a semi-truck, even a momentary lapse in attention can have disastrous consequences.
Due to their massive size, semi-trucks require more time and distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles. Speeding reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, often leading to rear-end collisions or rollovers.
Mechanical failures
Mechanical failures can also lead to semi-truck accidents. Brake failure is particularly dangerous because it severely hampers the truck’s stopping capability. Lapses in maintenance schedules can result in undetected issues that manifest on the road.
Semi-truck tires endure significant wear and tear. Improper maintenance or overloading can increase the risk of blowouts. A high-speed tire blowout can cause the driver to lose control, potentially leading to multi-vehicle collisions.
Steering and suspension systems are essential for maintaining vehicle stability and control, especially under heavy loads. Regular checks and prompt repairs are necessary to prevent failures that could result in catastrophic accidents.
Victims of semi-truck crashes only have a limited time to file their claim for compensation after the crash. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial because these cases can be rather complex.
