Commercial trucks can be scary for other drivers on the road, as these vehicles can weigh almost twenty five times more than the standard passenger car. These trucks can be intimidating to drive next to, as they are often twice as tall as most vehicles. To truly emphasize the difference in weight further, the average commercial truck can weigh upwards of almost a hundred thousands pounds. Then on the flip side of that, a passenger vehicle can weigh at most maybe a few thousand pounds. If an accident between a commercial truck and passenger car were to arise, the situation can quickly become dire for the car driver.
In the article to follow, we have explored further into how truck accidents can happen, and what actions you can take if you have suffered due to the negligence of a commercial truck driver.
Why do truck accidents happen in the first place?
There are many reasons why commercial truck accidents can occur. Sometimes, car drivers may act recklessly and attempt to cut off a truck driver or otherwise behave in an irresponsible manner. But perhaps more often than not, truck drivers are actually the ones who cause these tragic events. Here are just a few reasons how trucks accidents can occur on the roadway:
- Truck driver fatigue and/or entering microsleep
- Impaired functions due to lacking sleep or medications
- Not allowing sufficient time to halt at a light or stop sign
- Turning too rapidly, causing truck to tip over
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol
- Texting or making a call while driving
Is truck driver fatigue a common issue?
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Truck drivers may lack the sleep they need in order to operate the truck with precision and care. Sometimes, a truck driver may feel pressures due to the demands of making it to their shipment destination on time, that they skip out on breaks, lunches and sleep. Perhaps the most risky, is when truck drivers are sleep-deprived while behind the wheel. Truck drivers may have to log their driving time when on the road, but it can be easy to stretch the truth and drive past the maximum number of hours. This attempt to get ahead of schedule can actually lead to a tragic accident. If a truck driver were to fall asleep behind the wheel and crash into another car, victims can suffer immensely painful and costly injuries.
What can I do if I was hit, and now have medical bills I can’t pay?
If you suffered injuries and now are unable to pay them off, you should consult with a Fredericksburg, VA truck accident lawyer for advice. If the truck driver was at-fault for the collision happening, you may be able to seek justice through financial compensation. Medical bills for an emergency accident can be so costly that is puts the victim in severe financial distress. It is not uncommon for a driver to make an appointment with an attorney for advice on how to seek retribution from the driver or trucking company.
Call MartinWren, P.C. for more insight into truck drivers and accidents.
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