Practically everyone gets concerned when driving next to a large truck on the highway. Likely because motorists recognize the devastation that an out of control truck can cause. Unfortunately, many drivers are injured every day due to the negligent actions of a truck driver. That is why it is important to pursue the compensation you need to handle your medical and living expenses after a serious injury. If a negligent truck driver injured you or a family member, you should consult with an experienced Chester truck accident lawyer today.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Chester, PA
Truck accidents may occur for several different reasons. While it is certainly possible for a truck crash to happen due to rare and unusual circumstances, many accidents are the result of poor decisions. For example, failing to perform routine maintenance on a truck could cause various issues that could lead to an accident. The following is a list of common causes of truck accidents.
Driver Error
There are many truck drivers on the road who have not received adequate training necessary to operate their vehicles. For example, some drivers may overestimate their ability to stop or drive well over the speed limit. Unfortunately, due to the sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler, it is typically other motorists who have to bear the burden of a truck driver’s reckless actions. A trucking company that knowingly employs an inexperienced driver may be liable for your injuries.
Overloaded Trailer
Some trucking companies will attempt to overload a truck trailer to earn more profits at the cost of safety. This can result in a commercial vehicle being extremely overweight and more difficult to handle. A truck with a fully loaded trailer has the potential to crush a passenger vehicle and cause lifelong or fatal injuries.
Trucking companies that overload their trailers are not only liable for your injuries in the event of an accident, but they may also be guilty of violating state and federal laws.
Tire Blowout
Tire blowouts are one of the most common causes of truck accidents. These accidents are easily avoidable if a trucking company performs frequent maintenance to determine when tires should be repaired or replaced entirely. For example, it is easy to determine if a tire is underinflated or overinflated enough to explode while driving.
Another common cause of tire blowouts is defects in the tire caused by a manufacturer. This means that a tire manufacturer and a trucking company could be liable for your injuries if a tire explodes due to a defect.
Driver Fatigue
Working hours for truck drivers are heavily regulated to avoid having a driver operating a vehicle while they are fatigued. There is an 11-hour driving limit for truck drivers in a single day. After working for 11 hours, a driver must take at least 10 consecutive hours off. However, some companies may lean on drivers to work additional hours beyond the legal limit. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times which increases the likelihood of them causing a serious accident.
What to Do After a Commercial Truck Crash in Chester, Pennsylvania
After being involved in a commercial vehicle accident, you should seek medical attention immediately even if you do not believe you are injured. Some injuries could take longer to manifest than others.
You also need to gather information to build your case. This information should include the truck driver’s license, insurance carrier, license plate, and address. It is important to learn what company the driver works for as well. After exchanging information with the driver, you should talk to any witnesses that are willing to provide you with a statement. Be sure to document any important details about the scene of the accident, like whether it was raining.
A police report will also come in handy when reporting the accident to your insurance. Be wary of speaking to representatives from another insurance company as they may try to invalidate your claim.
Our Chester, PA Truck Collision Attorneys Can Help
If you or a family member was the victim of a truck accident, you should contact an experienced Chester truck collision attorney. The personal injury attorneys at The Reiff Law Firm possess years of experience handling a wide range of accident cases for residents in Chester and across Pennsylvania. You do not have to bear the consequences of a life-changing accident alone because The Reiff Law Firm would be proud to represent you. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your accident, call us at (215) 709-6940 or fill out our online contact form.
