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Crashes involving large trucks, such as 18-wheelers, are among the most severe collisions that can happen on the highway. The truck’s enormous size and weight usually cause extensive injuries to other passenger vehicles. The crashes can lead to injuries resulting in permanent disabilities and sometimes even death. You have the right to file a lawsuit with the aid of an experienced personal injury attorney.
Motorists who sustain injuries require a quick compensation recovery to ensure they get the proper medical care and to accommodate for any new living expenses. Call a Tacoma truck accident lawyer to schedule a consultation.
The Most Common Cause for Truck Crashes in This State
A truck crash can occur for many reasons. When truck drivers speed or drive recklessly, they put all the other cars around them at risk. A common instance of reckless driving includes improper lane changes, causing them to weave through traffic. Following behind another motorist too closely is also a hazard since it takes trucks a much longer time to slow down and come to a stop, making a collision more likely.
Poor weather, and especially snow and ice, can often result in severe truck crashes. For that reason, there is federal and state legislation to direct truckers on how to proceed with these conditions.
Driving With Distractions
Operating any motor vehicle with distractions is extremely dangerous, especially with large commercial trucks. A trucker, while adjusting their radio or while texting, may fail to notice that another car in front of them is braking or slowing down. If an accident occurs as a result, a court could hold them accountable for the injuries sustained by the other person, and a Tacoma truck collision lawyer could help determine if distractions played a part.
Common Types of Truck Accidents
Not every truck crash is the same – and the type of accident could affect liability and the extent of injury involved.
T-Bone Collisions
T-Bone collisions occur when the truck strikes the side of a vehicle head-on. Side impact crashes typically result in more damages than rear-end crashes. If the impact is especially forceful, it could also lead to a rollover.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident is unique to commercial truck collisions. They occur when the truck skids along the road and the trailer swings around to the side of the truck, smashing into cars in neighboring lanes or those driving in the opposite direction.
Tire Blowouts
A blown tire could be the fault of the driver or the trucking company if they were not properly maintained, or it could be a result of a defective tire. That might mean the tire manufacturer is the negligent party.
Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing
Federal and state legislation strictly regulates truck drivers and companies to ensure safe operation. Under the Revised Code of Washington § 46.32.110, all truck operators must undergo regular drug and alcohol testing to confirm they are not driving while under the influence. Any company with knowledge of a driver using alcohol or drugs while driving must report the information immediately. Failure to report possible drug or alcohol use by a trucker will lead to significant fines.
A motorist who believes they were in an accident with a truck driver under the influence should contact a skilled legal professional immediately. A seasoned truck crash lawyer in Tacoma could answer questions on Washington’s alcohol and controlled substances code and investigate further to prove liability.
Call a Tacoma Truck Accident Attorney
If a negligent trucker or the company they work for caused injuries to you or a loved one, it is vital that you find representation immediately. These defendants will likely have insurance companies and attorneys on their side, fighting on their behalf. It is best to have a Tacoma truck accident lawyer in your corner, fighting on your behalf as well. Call now to schedule a meeting with Ritchie Reiersen Law.
