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Fatal Truck Accidents

Fatal Truck Accidents

Home » Practice Areas » Truck Accident » Fatal Truck Accidents

Fatal Trucking Accidents

The loss of a loved one in a trucking accident can leave an entire family devastated and unsure what to do next.  If you have unfortunately found yourself in this situation, the dedicated team at VanDerGinst Law would be honored to help you navigate these difficult times.  Our fatal truck accident lawyers won’t rush to accept a quick but inadequate settlement. Instead, they are prepared to go to the distance to be sure your family obtains the compensation they deserve.

How Common are Fatal Trucking Accidents?

Although there are fewer trucking accidents than crashes involving passenger vehicles, commercial truck accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, there were a total of 36,096 fatalities in motor vehicle crashes in the United States. Out of these, 4,119 fatalities (11.4%) involved large trucks, including commercial trucks.  It is important to note that while commercial trucks make up a smaller percentage of vehicles on the road compared to passenger vehicles, they can cause severe damage and injuries due to their size and weight. The NHTSA also reports that in fatal crashes involving large trucks and passenger vehicles, occupants of passenger vehicles are more likely to be fatally injured than occupants of the trucks.  Factors such as driver fatigue, impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and inadequate maintenance can contribute to accidents involving commercial trucks. To mitigate these risks, there are regulations and safety measures in place, such as hours-of-service rules for truck drivers, mandatory inspections, and requirements for commercial driver’s licenses.

Common Causes of Fatal Trucking Accidents

  • Driver Fatigue: One of the leading causes of commercial truck accidents is driver fatigue. Long hours on the road, demanding schedules, and inadequate rest periods can contribute to drowsy driving. To address this issue, trucking companies should strictly enforce regulations on driver working hours and encourage drivers to take regular breaks. Additionally, the use of technology, such as electronic logging devices, can help monitor and prevent excessive driving hours.
  • Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a significant concern in all types of accidents, including those involving commercial trucks. Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-cab technology can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. Implementing strict policies prohibiting the use of mobile devices while driving, as well as providing education and awareness programs, can help reduce distracted driving incidents.
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglected vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, which can result in catastrophic accidents. Trucking companies should prioritize regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition. Implementing comprehensive maintenance programs and conducting routine checks can help identify potential issues before they become major safety concerns.
  • Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speeding and reckless driving by commercial truck drivers significantly increases the risk of accidents. Stricter enforcement of speed limits, along with continuous driver training programs, can help instill a safety-first mindset among truck drivers. Developing a culture of responsible driving can contribute to reducing the number of fatal accidents caused by speeding and reckless behavior.
  • Inadequate Training and Experience: Insufficient training and limited experience can make truck drivers more susceptible to errors on the road. Trucking companies should invest in comprehensive training programs that cover various aspects of safe driving, load securement, and emergency procedures. Additionally, mentoring programs pairing experienced drivers with new recruits can help enhance their skills and knowledge.

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Why Should You Hire an Attorney for a Fatal Truck Accident?

Hiring an attorney for a wrongful death trucking accident can be beneficial for several reasons:

  • Legal Expertise: Wrongful death cases involving trucking accidents can be complex. An experienced attorney specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases will have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations specific to the trucking industry. They can navigate the legal complexities, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
  • Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Trucking accidents often require a thorough investigation to determine liability. Attorneys have the resources and expertise to conduct a comprehensive investigation, including obtaining accident reports, analyzing black box data, interviewing witnesses, and collecting other crucial evidence. This investigation is crucial in establishing fault and liability.
  • Determining Liability: In trucking accidents, multiple parties can potentially be held liable, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or even a third-party contractor. An attorney can help identify all potentially responsible parties and hold them accountable for their negligence or wrongdoing.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when it comes to wrongful death cases. Insurance companies may try to minimize their liability or offer inadequate settlements. An attorney can handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your loss.
  • Maximizing Compensation: Wrongful death cases involve seeking compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress. An attorney can assess the full extent of your damages and work to maximize your compensation, considering both economic and non-economic factors.
  • Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney can represent you in court. They will present your case, argue on your behalf, and advocate for your rights and interests in front of a judge and jury.
  • Emotional Support: Dealing with the loss of a loved one is emotionally challenging. Having an attorney by your side can provide emotional support during this difficult time. They can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on grieving and healing.

If you’ve lost a loved one in a truck accident, the lawyers at VanDerGinst Law are here to help.  Although nothing will return your loved one to you, hiring an attorney for a wrongful death trucking accident can provide you with the legal expertise, support, and guidance needed to navigate the complex legal process and seek justice for your loved one’s untimely death.  Contact us today at 800-797-5391 for a FREE consultation.  There is never a fee on your case unless we win.

 

The Importance of Legal Representation

If you are injured in a truck accident, you deserve fair and just compensation. Though money won’t take away your pain, it can help you get the care you need, or assist family for any loss they suffer due to the accident victim’s injuries or death.

Truck accidents are complex and may involve multiple parties subject to different rules and regulations. An experienced personal injury attorney can fight for your rights and make sure that all parties are held responsible. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident involving a drunk driver or a driver under the influence of drug, the truck accident lawyers of VanDerGinst Law can help.  Call 800-960-8529 or click here for a FREE, no obligation consultation.

 

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