Collisions involving a commercial truck differ from accidents with standard passenger vehicles since the accident aftermath will affect more than the drivers. Trucking companies employ commercial drivers to operate their company-owned semi-trucks. When an accident occurs, multiple people are involved in the outcome.
Tractor-trailer accidents often cause more damage than regular automobiles due to their size and weight. Federal, state, and local laws about commercial vehicles and their operations exist to protect other drivers and passengers, but accidents still happen.
Multiple parties and regulations complicate truck accident cases. And, dealing with insurance companies, corporate attorneys, and more is exhausting, especially if you are recovering. An Akron truck accident lawyer can manage your case, so that you can focus on your health, family, and everyday life. Talk to a legal professional by calling Ben Crump Law, PLLC at (844) 430-1030.
Who is liable in a truck accident?
An Akron truck accident lawyer knows that even if a commercial driver is at fault in an accident, they may not be the only liable party. Parties that may also be responsible for the damages after a truck accident include:
- The truck driver may have caused the collision due to human error or negligent behavior, such as distracted, drunk, or drowsy driving. Truckers must adhere to mandatory breaks and cannot operate a vehicle if they are fatigued. The operator is also responsible for checking the truck and cargo before driving to ensure its safety.
- The employer is accountable for its trucks and drivers. They must maintain documentation that proves their truckers and vehicles are safe for operation, including employee drug tests and truck maintenance logs.
- Agencies and other vendors who work directly with operations could be responsible if their actions contributed to the truck accident. For example, third-party mechanics who performed repairs on the truck.
- Cargo handlers include originators, shippers, loaders, and transports who may be responsible if a problem with the cargo caused the accident, such as through shifting.
- Truck and parts manufacturers and distributors are liable for defective system products, such as mechanical problems with steering or braking, causing accidents.
Negligence, or the failure to take proper care, is often the cause of truck accidents. Commercial truck cases are intricate when looking for the cause of the accident since there are often multiple people and entities for which to account. Truck accident lawyers know which type of documentation is crucial in these cases.
For example, unlike a driving-under-the-influence case, there is no medical test for sleepiness. An attorney would investigate the logs truckers legally must keep of their sleep and driving schedule. Proof of the driver breaking the 70-hour/8-day hours of service rule (49 CFR 395) could be beneficial.
For a free legal consultation with a truck accidents lawyer serving Akron, call (844) 430-1030
What an Akron Truck Accident Lawyer Can Do to Help
Per Ohio Statute §2305.10, you have a time limitation of two years to file an automobile accident lawsuit Recoverable damages from a truck accident case can include compensation for:
- Monetary damages including economic losses like missed wages, loss of property, and expenses related to the collision like medical costs.
- Non-monetary damages, such as physical, mental, and psychological suffering.
- Wrongful death damages. The family of victims who died in a truck accident may receive compensation to cover medical care and burial expenses. Likewise, relatives may seek compensation for emotional distress and loss of financial support.
An accident lawyer gathers information needed to strengthen your lawsuit and can clarify what recoverable damages apply to your case. Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC today to find out how we may be able to help.
Akron Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 430-1030
Identifying Truck Accident Types
While commercial vehicle drivers are susceptible to mistakes, there are several causes of truck accidents. Large, heavy trucks need more space and time to brake, and an equipment malfunction can result in a collision.
Collisions
When the front of a vehicle hits another, it is a head-on collision. It is a rear-end accident if a truck strikes another vehicle from behind. Head-on and rear-end accidents involving commercial trucks are especially precarious to drivers in smaller vehicles.
An underride accident happens when a smaller vehicle collides into and under a tractor-trailer. Since this type of truck accident is so dangerous, the government has implemented several regulations to protect regular drivers. Trailers and semitrailers must have rear impact guards per Federal Statute §571.224.
Tire Blowouts
A tire blowout from any vehicle can be dangerous to other drivers on the road. But commercial truck tire blowouts are particularly hazardous due to their size. A failed tire can cause collisions and damage:
- As the vehicle’s driver counter-steers the pull of the blown tire.
- As other drivers avoid shredded rubber and tire wreckage.
- If the tire or its parts hit another vehicle.
Tires can blow out due to inadequate air pressure, potholes, too much weight, defects, punctures, cuts, etc.
Roll-Over Accidents
When a truck rolls over from an accident, it can be a dangerous object for other drivers. Likewise, roll-over accidents can cause cargo to come loose or leak, which can worsen the damages. Trucks carrying hazardous chemicals can cause long-term health effects if victims are exposed during an accident.
Blind Spot Accidents
You may have noticed posted signs about the driver’s blind spots when behind an 18-wheeler. Truckers have significant blind spots where they cannot see smaller vehicles. A truck can collide into another vehicle if the driver cannot see it.
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Get Help From an Akron Truck Accident Lawyer
To speak to a team member about your truck accident, contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC at (844) 430-1030.
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