Trucking Accidents

When an “18-wheeler,” semi-truck or other large truck is involved in a crash with another motor vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. According to data collected by the United States government, large semi-trucks and buses were involved in 137,181 crashes in 2008. In fact, there are more than fifteen (15) crashes every hour on our nation’s highways involving large trucks.

The drivers of semi-trucks owe the public the highest degree of care under the law. The trucking companies also have a duty to ensure that they hire and train only safe drivers. All too frequently, the trucking companies fail in their responsibilities and our roads are made more dangerous.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) published a list of the top causes of semi-truck crashes:

• Braking failure
• Traffic congestion
• Truck operator prescription drug use
• Truck operator driving his tractor-trailer too fast for road conditions
• Truck operator’s unfamiliarity with the road
• Roadway construction
• Truck driver’s failure to stop at an electronic traffic signal, stop sign, or crosswalk
• Truck operator’s use of over-the-counter drugs
• Failure of the truck driver to keep a careful look out of the roadway (inattention)
• Truck driver fatigue

Our attorneys have vast experience in litigating cases against trucking companies, with numerous multi-million dollar recoveries. Call for a free confidential consultation with one of our attorneys at 877.857.2622.