Types of Truck Accidents

Trucks are a common sight on our country’s highways and interstates. These vehicles are an important part of our economy, carrying goods from one place to another to meet the demands of our growing population. Although they are essential to society’s survival, large vehicles can pose a high risk to motorists, especially when truck drivers are negligent, trucks left in disrepair, and company owners ignore government safety regulations.

At Fried Goldberg, LLC, our truck accident lawyers are here to stand up for your rights and fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys are highly experienced with the complexities of truck accident claims. Schedule a free initial consultation today to discuss your options. You can contact us by clicking here or calling (877) 591-1801.

driving on the road

What Is the Most Common Type of Lift Truck Accident?

Truck accidents of all types cause some of the greatest devastation seen on today’s highways. Due to the sheer size alone, large trucks can cause considerable property damage and inflict catastrophic injury on a number of innocent victims.
Below are some of the most common types of truck accidents:

  • Jackknife
    Jackknifing is when a big rig folds itself so that the cab forms a 90-degree angle with the trailer, usually caused when a driver brakes hard and quickly. The weight of the trailer brings it forward against the traction of the cab.
  • Truck Rollovers
    If the driver loses control of a truck, it can slide and roll over onto its side, taking innocent motorists with it.
  • Tire Blowout
    Tire blowouts can happen with any vehicle, often forcing it uncontrollably in wayward directions. This can pose a danger to the driver as well as nearby vehicles.
  • Wide Turn
    When a driver first steers or “swings” left to make a right turn, it is known as a wide turn. When the driver is not aware of rear traffic or the right side surroundings, it can trap vehicles or even pedestrians.
  • Blind Spots
    A truck’s blind spots can be significant, so much that they have a name: “No Man’s Land.” When a truck driver can’t see other vehicles while changing lanes, it puts adjacent vehicles in tremendous danger of being hit, crushed, or forced off the road.
  • Rear-end
    Due to the weight of large trucks, rear-end trucking accidents can cause serious property damage and catastrophic injuries, as well as loss of life.
  • Under Ride
    When a truck stops quickly, smaller vehicles quickly approaching behind it can become lodged under the truck’s trailer. As a result, these under ride accidents are some of the deadliest trucking accidents recorded.
  • Lost Load
    Improperly loaded freight and secured truck loads can fall out, causing extreme danger to nearby motorists as well as multi-car accidents.
  • Head On
    Head-on collisions with tractor trailers are often the most devastating, causing serious injury and even death.
  • T-Bone
    T-bone accidents can occur when a truck driver runs a red light and hits another vehicle perpendicularly.

 

Why Are Truck Collisions Increasing Throughout the Country?

The trucking industry is at a pivotal moment in time. In the aftermath of the pandemic, industries are adjusting to the “new normal.” The disruption of the supply chain has put tremendous pressure on the fleets and trucking companies:

As the industry desperately tries to rebound and keep up with added demands, truck driver employment retention is decreasing. According to Transport Dive, a leading publication for in-depth journalism for the trucking industry, carriers are losing “one out of every new 20 drivers in the first seven days.”

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has collected data from multiple sources. After an in-depth analysis, the FMCSA shows commercial truck accident trends are up and expected to rise:

  • Fatal truck collisions increased by 2% in the last year
  • Injuries from large truck crashes have increased by 62% over the last four years
  • 97% of fatalities were from the passenger vehicle
  • Early estimates for this year show fatal collisions have increased by 10.5%

Analytics from insurance experts and the FMCSA shows that large trucks are involved in:

  • 74% of all motor vehicle collisions
  • 81% of all motor vehicle-related injuries
  • 76% of all property damage claims.

Tanker truck speeding through a construction site

Were You Injured in a Truck Accident?

When a truck driver is careless or a trucking company is negligent, it can cause unsuspecting motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to suffer extensive injuries and cost precious lives. Unfortunately, many accidents can be avoided if the driver or truck company simply abided by safe driving and maintenance laws.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a trucking accident, the attorneys at Fried Goldberg are here to help. We have extensive experience representing victims of trucking accidents, and a proven track record of delivering just verdicts to help our clients regain their lives.

A thorough understanding of the complex laws and regulations relating to the trucking industry gives us a valuable edge. Our team will aggressively pursue the party at fault to make sure your family gets the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. To find out how we can help you recover, contact us today at 877-591-1801 for a free case evaluation.

What Are the Most Common Injuries for Truck Accident Victims?

The immediate aftermath of a collision with a truck is crucial. Often, truck accident victims are left to the mercy of a witness to call for help. While documentation is important following any accident, your medical needs come first.

Seek medical care as soon as possible. Even if you or your passenger feel well, motor vehicle collisions can lead to delayed injuries that can become serious in the hours and days following a crash.

Truck collisions are responsible for some of the most devastating and catastrophic injuries in all automobile accidents. Common injuries include:

  • Head injuries or traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord damage that can lead to paralysis and paraplegia
  • Severe neck and back injuries
  • Whiplash, which can be detrimental in serious cases
  • Broken, dislocated, and fractured bones
  • Loss of limb and amputations
  • Disfigurement
  • Severe lacerations and burns
  • Serious internal injuries, including internal bleeding and organ damage

What Are the Most Common Trucks on the Road?

There are many types of commercial trucks on U.S. roadways, each designed to perform a specific task. The most common large truck types and the risk they pose to motorists and pedestrians include:

  • Dump & Garbage Trucks
    Garbage, trash, and other work vehicles such as dump trucks, can be extremely hazardous to those driving, cycling or walking in close proximately. These vehicles are often in residential areas carrying large loads of waste, dry materials, dirt, demolition debris, gravel, sand, and other construction materials. The loads are often top-heavy, causing a risk of large blind spots, tip-overs, or falling or flying debris.
  • Tractor-Trailers
    These cargo-hauling trucks are also known as “semi-trailers,” “big rigs,” or “18-wheelers.” They have considerable blind spots and a high center of gravity that makes them prone to rollovers. Combined with the fact that many big rig drivers are behind the wheel for long stretches of time, tractor-trailers can be extremely dangerous to other drivers.
  • Tanker Trucks
    A tanker truck hauls liquids or gases, many of which are classified as hazardous materials. Due to their size and shape, large tankers are also prone to rollovers. This can be extremely dangerous if the hauled liquid or gas is flammable, or if toxic substance fumes are released.
  • Flatbed Trucks
    Flatbeds have a long open trailer to accommodate loading and unloading cargo. Flatbed truck accidents often involve improperly secured cargo that becomes dislodged from the truck, hitting other vehicles or causing massive accidents.
  • Tow Trucks
    Usually run by private operators who inadequately train drivers, these large vehicles weigh more than 10,000 pounds and account for a majority of today’s accidents.

What Are Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents?

Every year, there are numerous fatal semi truck accidents. Although nature plays a significant role in some accidents, most others can be avoided if truck drivers and the companies behind them weren’t so careless.

  • Severe Weather
    Snow, ice, rain, fog and extreme wind make it difficult for truck drivers to always maintain safe driving. Drivers can lose control and cause multi-car pile ups that severely injure motorists.
  • Poor Road Conditions
    Unpaved or pothole-ridden roads, and narrow lanes or highways without shoulders can make truck driving especially hazardous on our roadways.
  • Road Construction
    Trying to maneuver around construction by driving on the shoulder of the road or in the median can easily cause a collision.
  • Inadequate or Improper Training
    An improperly trained truck driver lacking skills in defensive driving, handling the vehicle, and other safety elements, is always a high risk to other motorists on the road.
  • Driver Unfamiliarity or Inexperience with Roads
    Truck drivers who aren’t familiar with problematic routes or prepared for narrow, curvy, or rough roads can quickly lose control of the vehicle and collide with anything in the way.
  • Overloading Cargo
    A large load can create tire blowouts, causing the truck to jackknife, tip over due to too much weight, or produce flying debris that can cause cars to swerve and collide.
  • Mechanical Malfunction or Poor Maintenance
    Worn tires and braking systems can cause drivers to lose control and cause horrific accidents. All truck maintenance checks must be documented. This means a truck company can be held responsible for an accident if faulty equipment is found to blame.
  • Negligent Driving
    Unsafe and careless driving characterized by:
    • Speeding
    • Driver inattention or distraction due to texting, using GPS or talking
    • Driver fatigue
    • Use of alcohol or drugs
    • Road rage or aggressive driving
    • Failure to check for blind spots before turning or changing lanes
    • Frequent lane changes
    • Failure to use turn signals and improper turning
    • Tailgating
    • Not obeying road rules

Truck on the Road

Why Is Commercial Trucking a Complex Area of Law?

The commercial trucking industry is regulated by a detailed set of federal and state laws. Trucking regulations cover issues concerning vehicles, their drivers, and commercial trucking company operations. If you have been in a truck accident, it’s crucial that your trucking accident attorney understands this network of laws and regulations to help win your case. For example, weight restriction violations and driving beyond a set time frame can both sway a case in the plaintiff’s favor.

Victims injured in trucking accidents who are not represented by a knowledgeable attorney take a big risk. Corporate insurers do everything they can to win in court or avoid paying out a claim. You need experienced representation to go up against companies and insurance carriers with deep pockets and resources. A competent law firm can make all the difference in helping you receive the compensation you deserve. To minimize risk, choose a firm that focuses on truck accidents like Fried Goldberg.

Allow the truck accident attorneys of Fried Goldberg, LLC to fight for the settlement you deserve. We will advocate tirelessly on your behalf and guide you every step of the way.

What Settlement Can a Truck Accident Attorney Recover?

Collisions with negligent truck drivers are unavoidable. Semi-trucks, garbage trucks, and large 18-wheelers flood roads in cities and rural areas. If you or a loved one have been harmed in a truck accident, you need experienced legal representation by your side to secure the financial award you deserve.

At Fried Goldberg, LLC, our truck collision attorneys use several factors to determine a fair settlement for your case, including:

  • Who is liable for your injuries?
    Due to the massive size of trucks and the potential for greater damage, truck drivers have a higher expected duty of care on the road. You may be entitled to compensation if a driver operates his vehicle recklessly by speeding or aggressive “road rage” tactics.

    If a truck driver has violated their hours of service, failed to inspect their vehicle, or has not had the proper training, the trucking company may also be held liable.

    It is important to contact our truck accident attorneys to discuss the specific details of your case thoroughly.

  • What is the severity of your injuries?

    Truck accidents often cause catastrophic damage. When a truck accident victim sustains injuries that leave them disabled or unable to perform the same work, a lifetime of medical care and lost earning potential will exponentially increase a truck accident settlement.

    While most truck accidents are settled out of court, the higher financial stakes make it more likely you will need to fight for your fair compensation at trial. Our truck accident attorneys are talented litigators with a long track record of success. We have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients.

    Under the law, damages are a legal concept in civil lawsuits that are designed to make the victim “whole.” Property damage, bodily injury, and psychological trauma are all damages that are represented in monetary form in a settlement.

    For example, in a minor collision, an accident victim may need their vehicle repaired and medical bills covered. However, truck accidents are far more severe.

    If your injuries leave you disfigured or disabled, the consequences can span a lifetime. You may need:

    • Long-term medical care and physical therapy
    • Medical equipment for limited mobility
    • Prosthetic limbs
    • Home modifications

In addition, if you cannot return to work or find gainful employment despite your education and skills, you may be entitled to recover the loss of future earnings.

  • Does your claim qualify for punitive damages?

    Punitive damages are unique compared to other personal injury damages. For this reason, it is crucial to speak to your truck accident lawyer to determine if your case qualifies for punitive damages.

    Unlike other compensatory damages, punitive damages are meant to:

    • Punish a particularly negligent party
    • Deter future behavior

For example, if a truck driver was under the influence of an illegal substance or driving under the influence, you may be entitled to punitive damages.

  • Who pays the settlement?

    In most cases, the truck driver who caused the accident, the insurance company, or the trucking company will pay the settlement or verdict. Personal injury claims may have one responsible party or several depending on the circumstances surrounding the truck collision

Truck accidents are overwhelming. Assessing the extent of your injuries, the impact on your family and professional life, and the unexpected financial burden can lead victims to experience depression and anxiety.

Allow the truck accident attorneys of Fried Goldberg, LLC to fight for the settlement you deserve. We will advocate tirelessly on your behalf and guide you every step of the way.

Why Choose Fried Goldberg, LLC

At Fried Goldberg, our lawyers are well versed in trucking accidents. 95% of our caseload is dedicated to representing victims of trucking accidents.

Equally important, our experience in this complex area of law helps us to win big cases and settlements so that our clients have what they need to properly heal and move on.

What Damages Can Truck Accident Attorneys Help Recover?

Semi-truck accidents are some of the most devastating collisions to occur on U.S. roads. Injuries are often catastrophic with life-changing consequences.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a negligent truck crash, our personal injury attorneys are here to help you recover damages, including:

  • Lost wages if you are unable to work
  • Full coverage of medical expenses, both present and future
  • Loss of earning potential
  • Loss of enjoyment of life damages
  • Emotional distress damages
  • Loss of consortium damages
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Possible punitive damages against a grossly negligent party

In some cases, truck accident victims suffer fatal injuries. The loss of a loved one is immeasurable. At Fried Goldberg, LLC, we understand no amount of compensation can lessen your loss. However, seeking the counsel of our wrongful death attorneys can help you hold the responsible parties accountable.

Recovering compensation in a wrongful death claim is not all about money. Standing up for the rights of your loved one, obtaining answers, and making sure negligent parties are answerable for their wrongdoing can help families gain the closure they need to move on.

Any monetary damages will reflect the severity of wrongdoing and help prevent the needless loss of life in the future.

 

Why You Should Schedule a Consultation With Our Truck Accident Attorneys Today

Fried Goldberg, LLC, the majority of personal injury cases we handle are truck collision claims. Our truck accident attorneys are exceptional litigators. We have stood up for victims’ rights in both federal and state courts with focused and aggressive representation.

When you need effective, results-driven advocacy, call Fried Goldberg, LLC. We are committed to helping clients just like you regain their lives by providing personal, compassionate representation. You deserve to be fairly compensated for your injuries and loss, and we are here to help you do that.

If you or a loved one has sustained serious injuries in a truck accident, do not wait to contact Fried Goldberg for a free, no-obligation case review. We want to help you heal both physically and financially. Contact our experienced truck accident lawyers today for your free consultation by clicking here or calling (877) 591-1801.

Types of Truck Accidents: FAQs

Who can be held liable for a truck accident?

Liability can be complex in truck accidents. For example, the truck driver may be held liable if they drove negligently, including:

  • Driving over the specified number of hours without proper rest breaks
  • Was found to be under the influence of an illegal substance

The trucking company may also be liable if:

  • The truck was not maintained
  • The truck was improperly loaded

It is best to consult your truck accident attorney to discuss all liable parties for your particular set of circumstances.

Are there filing deadlines for truck accident lawsuits?

In most cases, personal injury truck accident claims must be filed within 2 years of the date of the accident. It is important to seek experienced counsel to discuss your rights and options as soon as possible. However, there may be some exceptions to the time limit. Contact the truck accident lawyers at Fried Goldberg today for an evaluation of your case.

What is the most common type of truck accident?

Truck accidents are unique due to their size and weight. Drivers are typically required special training to properly handle a truck’s lack of maneuverability. The most common type of truck crashes are jackknife accidents, wide-turn crashes, and deadly rollover collisions.

What do truck accident lawyers do?

Truck accident lawyers protect the rights of injury victims by:

  • Conducting a thorough investigation
  • Identifying all liable parties
  • Gathering key supportive evidence
  • Negotiating on behalf of truck accident victims

If you or a loved one have been hurt due to a negligent truck driver, contact the dedicated attorneys of Fried Goldberg, LLC. Consult our experienced truck accident lawyers today for a free initial case evaluation by clicking here or calling (877) 910-9187.

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“If there were more stars to give, Adam Smith definitely deserves those stars. I am extremely proud of the services that Adam rendered, from the moment we first talked until the moment we received compensation for our claim. I would certainly recommend this law firm to any and everyone that is in need of excellent legal representation.”
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“My lawyer Brian Mohs was exceptional!! It really was a pleasure allowing him to work for us and keep us posted on our legal suit as I dealt with my everyday life events without having to be burdened with the legal aspects of my situation. Very professional, straight shooter, prompt, determined, and extremely intelligible whilst being down to earth and real. Great experience. I would highly recommend that if you need legal help, call Brian. He’s your guy”!
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“Attorney Green and staff were instrumental in navigating all of my legal needs after I experienced a traumatic motor vehicle accident. Hence, I was able to concentrate on my recovery knowing I obtained excellent legal representation. Thank you!”

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Truck accident attorneys at Fried Goldberg

The Truck Accident Attorneys

The Truck Accident Attorneys at Fried Goldberg LLC devote at least 75% of their caseload to representing the victims of accidents involving tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles. Our extensive experience with the laws governing the trucking industry is the reason we are routinely successful at taking on trucking companies when someone is seriously injured.

 

 

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The Truck Accident Attorneys

The Truck Accident Attorneys at Fried Goldberg LLC devote at least 95% of their caseload to representing the victims of accidents involving tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles. Our extensive experience with the laws governing the trucking industry is the reason we are routinely successful at taking on trucking companies when someone is seriously injured.

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Millions Recovered

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Our experienced attorneys have represented individuals who have been seriously injured. We are proud of the outstanding reputation we have within our industry and our track record of success, which sets us apart. In particular, we have recovered nearly $1 billion for our clients throughout the country.

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