Trucking Accidents Explained
Vehicle accidents can share many similarities, but a collision between a truck and a car is often more severe than a crash involving two cars. Commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than the cars that surround them on the road, making them a potential hazard even in the best of conditions. But factor in inclement weather or driver drowsiness and it’s easy to see how things can quickly spin out of control. Then there’s the truck’s cargo to consider, with the transport of hazardous materials increasing the risk of injury.
If you’re injured in a truck accident, it’s important to hire an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of your case – and is equipped to untangle them in pursuit of the compensation you deserve. Our team at West Law Firm has the experience needed, and you won’t have to leave Berkeley County to find it!
West Law Firm’s truck accident attorneys have answered some frequently asked questions here:
What Causes Truck Accidents?
Just like other road-related incidents, there are multiple causes of truck accidents – from distractions and poor visibility to speeding and risky lane changes. But these three risk factors are most frequently associated with truckers:
- Drowsy driving – Because truckers often drive for many consecutive hours to complete their assigned routes, they’re susceptible to driving fatigue. Many will push themselves to stay on the road long after their eyes have grown heavy. In fact, the CDC reports that commercial drivers are among the most likely offenders of drowsy driving.
- Insufficient training – Driving a truck is more difficult than driving a car and without the proper training and experience handling a vehicle that size, truck drivers are more likely to get in an accident.
- Mechanical failure – Many trucks log thousands of miles a month, requiring maintenance much more often than the average car. But because they spend so much time on the road, many are not serviced as often as they should be. Therefore, it’s no surprise that many accidents are caused by preventable mechanical issues.
Who Is Responsible?
Your attorney will most likely take on the trucking company in pursuit of compensation, but independent contractors and other factors can make it difficult to determine who is at fault – and who should be held accountable. Truck accident cases can be very complicated, involving yards of red tape. That’s why it’s crucial to hire an attorney who knows the ins and outs of truck accident cases, and has experience handling both insurance and trucking companies.
To schedule your free initial consultation with one of our truck accident attorneys in our Moncks Corner, SC office, contact West Law Firm at 843-761-5626 or click here.
About West Law Firm, P.A.
Founded by H. Norman West in 1945, West Law Firm has served the Lowcountry for nearly 75 years. Practice areas include personal injury, car wrecks, criminal defense, DUI defense, family law, wrongful death, land disputes, business litigation, probate and estate planning, and alternative dispute resolution.
West Law Firm, P.A.
207 Carolina Avenue
Moncks Corner SC 29461