While you travel city streets or highways, you probably see your fair share of semitrucks. These large vehicles serve the very important purpose of shipping goods around the country. Unfortunately, that task comes with significant risks.
The massive size and considerable weight of these rigs can pose a hazard to other motorists on the roads. If you’re struck by a semi-truck and suffer injuries, you may opt to pursue a compensation claim. As part of that claim, you’ll have to show what caused the crash so you can tie the crash to the negligent party. These are few of the more common causes that lead to semitruck crashes.
Trucker error
Most truckers drive safely because they know the risks that come with making errors. That doesn’t mean that errors never occur. Distractions, impairment and fatigue are some of the issues that may lead a trucker to crash. It’s also possible that pressure from a trucking company, such as unrealistic deadlines, may lead to a trucker making an error that could have been prevented if they were empowered to follow safe operating procedures.
Equipment malfunctions
Malfunctioning equipment on the semitruck can also lead to crashes. This may be because of something as catastrophic as the brakes or hitching system failing. Other issues, such as non-working lights, can also cause crashes. Because of this, it’s imperative that all semitrucks and trailers are maintained on a proper schedule.
Improper load securement
Federal regulations dictate the way cargo should be secured on semitrucks. When those regulations aren’t followed, there’s a chance that shifting cargo will cause a crash. This may be due to a trucker losing control of their rig or the cargo coming off the semitruck.
Your time to file a personal injury claim after a semitruck crash is limited by state law. If you’ve recently been harmed in such a collision, working with a legal representative who’s familiar with these cases may be beneficial because they have the tools to fight back against big insurance companies, logistics companies and any other liable parties who should be held accountable for the financial damages you’re facing.
