Commercial trucks are one of the vehicles most prone to road accidents. These trucks are more likely to have accidents due to the fact that they are bigger and heavier than other cars. In 2018, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) announced a statistical increase in these accidents by 1% compared to 2017. Although not all accidents of this type are fatal, they are still extremely dangerous and often result in serious injuries.
Different Types of Truck Accidents
There are multiple types of road accidents that can occur that involve a commercial truck. Since these types of serious accidents often can result in tragedy, it is best to know some of the most common types of accidents and how they can occur.
The most common accident is a side collision. These accidents tend to occur when a truck driver commits reckless driving. This type of accident is especially dangerous for the passengers of the smaller vehicle.
Rear collisions are also common with these types of vehicles. These often occur on crowded roads, where a driver stops suddenly. It can present high-level damage to the vehicle and, depending on the make and model, mortal danger to the passengers.
There are collisions that involve the loading of the truck in question. These cases occur when the truck makes a sharp turn or braking and the sudden deceleration moves the load unintentionally, causing the truck to tip over or jackknife.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
There are a number of factors that can cause truck accidents. Some of these may be due to the irresponsibility of the driver, defects in the truck, or many other external factors.
Trucks often have to meet a deadline for their deliveries, which makes high-speed driving common. Due to the momentum that these trucks accumulate due to their size and weight, speeding may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Distracted Driving. Spending long trips in a vehicle can be extremely boring, so it is not uncommon to find distracted drivers on the road. This is dangerous behavior, especially behind the wheel of such a large vehicle. It is important that drivers are attentive to the road in order to avoid any type of incident.
Tired Driving. Many truck trips tend to take long hours, even in the middle of the night. Driver fatigue has become one of the main causes of truck accidents.
Common Injuries Incurred in Truck Accidents
Statistically, injuries that occur in truck accidents tend to be quite serious. Accidents that result in a strong and sudden impact to the body lead to the following types of injuries:
If you have been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Darke County, it is vital that you seek medical attention right away. There are wounds that go beyond what is seen with the naked eye, both physically and psychologically. Many of these injuries may not show up right away, and if left untreated, they can cause irreparable damage. In case of psychological consequences, PTSD is common in victims after an accident and should be treated by a professional as soon as possible.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident in Ohio, there are a number of steps you should take to handle the situation in the immediate aftermath. The first and most important thing to do is to find a safe place for yourself, out of the way of traffic and far away from any vehicles that may be at risk of fire.
Once you are safe, then you must alert the authorities about the accident and wait on-site for their arrival. During the wait, you can talk to the other driver to exchange pertinent information such as registrations, license plates, and insurance data. You can also begin documenting evidence of the accident so that you can seek compensation in the event that your damages are substantial.
When the authorities arrive on the scene, you then must give a concise and honest account of what happened. Take into account that in case of a lawsuit, this will be your official statement. Do not admit guilt under any circumstances.
Lastly, it is imperative to get immediate medical attention after the accident. This may be a step you can take before statements if you find yourself seriously injured. Even though you seemingly look fine, it is always important to have a check-up right away to rule out any internal injuries.
Have You Been in a Truck Accident in Darke County, Ohio?
A truck accident can be a difficult, dangerous, costly, and traumatizing experience. The injuries you sustain can be serious, depriving you of your livelihood. If you have been in a truck accident in Darke County, it is important to speak to a trusted personal injury attorney right away. We here at Kruger & Hodges can help you through this entire process so you can get the financial compensation you deserve. To learn more, please contact us today to schedule a free, no-risk case evaluation.
