Posted on Monday, September 23rd, 2019 at 1:32 am
Large truck accidents, including 18-wheeler accidents, can be deadly. The massive size and weight of large trucks make it more likely that individuals might sustain catastrophic injuries and life-threatening injuries in a collision. From 2016 to 2017, there was a nine percent increase in the number of people who died in large truck accidents in the United States. California had the second-highest number of large truck accident fatalities that year with 53 deaths.
Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in California
The causes of 18-wheeler accidents vary. However, truck drivers and trucking companies are responsible for many of the large truck accidents. Common causes of large truck accidents include:
Truck Driver Negligence
Truck driver errors, mistakes, and negligence are a common factor in 18-wheeler accidents. Examples of truck driver negligence that can cause a truck accident include impaired driving (drunk driving and drugged driving), drowsy or fatigued driving, distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, and various traffic infractions (i.e. failing to yield the right of way, following too closely, improper lane change, etc.).
Weather and Road Conditions
Poor weather conditions (i.e. rain, snow, wind, etc.) and hazardous road conditions, such as road debris, can be a factor in 18-wheeler accidents. Even though weather and road conditions may be a factor in a truck accident, the truck driver can also be liable if the driver failed to take action to avoid an accident, such as slowing down.
Trucking Company Negligence
Negligence of trucking companies can also be a factor in the cause of a truck accident. For example, a trucking company may fail to perform a thorough background check to ensure a driver is qualified to operate a large truck. Some companies hire inexperienced drivers to save money or fail to provide adequate driver training. Other trucking companies fail to perform adequate maintenance and inspections to ensure that the trucks are safe to be on the road.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Shippers can also be liable for an 18-wheeler accident if they overload the truck or improperly load the truck. The cargo can shift during transport, causing the truck to be more difficult to control, especially in curves. Trucks that are overloaded also require additional distance to stop.
Defective Trucks and Parts
In some cases, a defective part or truck can contribute to a truck accident. If so, the truck or part manufacturer could be held liable for damages caused by a truck accident.
What Should I Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Truck accidents are complex and often involve multiple dependents. After an 18-wheeler accident, a victim should see a doctor immediately. In most cases, victims suffer severe injuries and are transported to the emergency room. After being treated for injuries, a truck accident victim should contact a California truck accident attorney.
Truck accident cases involve comprehensive investigations that often require the assistance of industry experts. An attorney has the resources and knowledge to oversee an investigation to determine the cause of the truck crash and identify all parties who may be liable for damages.
Contact a Sacramento Truck Accident Attorney for a Free Case Review
Call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation with a California truck accident lawyer to discuss your legal options for recovering compensation from the parties liable for the 18-wheeler accident.
