Trucking accidents are scary! Semi-trucks are so large that collisions with smaller vehicles have serious consequences. Victims experience physical injury, emotional trauma, property damage, long-term disability, and even death. In 2014, traffic accidents involving large trucks resulted in 3,903 fatalities and 111,000 injuries in the United States (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Our Kansas personal injury attorneys know firsthand how collisions with tractor trailers negatively affect the lives of victims. The majority of trucking accidents are caused by driver error, equipment failure, weather conditions, and improper loading.
Our Kansas Personal Injury Attorneys Want to Help Truck Accident Victims Recover
Driver Error
“The leading cause of trucking accidents is truck driver error,” says Rob Lee, Kansas personal injury attorney. “When a driver is suffering from fatigue, distractions or substance abuse, it greatly impairs their ability to safely operate a vehicle. While driving impaired, they take unnecessary risks and are unable to react to traffic conditions. These otherwise preventable accidents can result in tragedy for other motorists.”
Equipment Failure
Commercial trucking companies are required by the FMSCA to conduct regular vehicle inspection and maintenance. Unfortunately, these regulations are often ignored. There are many semi trucks on the road that are operating with worn-out tires, bad brakes, and other mechanical problems that can result in horrific accidents.
Inclement Weather
“Due to their size and heavy cargo, it’s difficult for semi trucks to turn, steer and stop on time,” says Chuck Hess, Kansas personal injury attorney. “Snow, rain and ice make things even more difficult, and further decreases the reaction time of truck drivers.”
Careless Loading
Sometimes the cargo bed of a semi truck is either loaded carelessly or with weight distributed unevenly. This can result in the semi truck falling over, cargo falling out, or the truck swinging into other lanes of traffic.
If you have been the victim of a trucking accident, please contact the Kansas personal injury attorneys of Lee Gurney. Our truck accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you receive the fair compensation you deserve!