truck accident

What Do Truck Attorneys Do? | Free Consultation

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Truck attorneys are attorneys who are specialized in truck accidents. This group represents people injured in an automobile accident. Truck accidents can happen at any given time.

A Charlotte firm focused on trucking litigation nationwide

Often the damage to vehicles is catastrophic when heavy vehicles collide with one another. Victims may experience devastating or fatal accidents. Truck accidents can cause wrongful death or personal injury and victims should receive compensation. However holding negligent parties to account is a challenge. Truck companies play a crucial role in ensuring vehicle safety and compliance with trucking laws. The law firm focuses 95% of their practice on assisting commercial drivers who have been injured during a vehicle accident, including tractor trailers. Our lawyers from Charlotte have been allowed to practice in the state and several other states and also often work as co-counsel for others across the country.

Truck Attorneys in Charlotte NC Takeaways

  • Expert Legal Support: Truck accident lawyers are crucial for navigating the complexities of truck accident cases, ensuring victims receive fair compensation for injuries, lost wages, and medical expenses.
  • Thorough Investigation: Lawyers gather comprehensive evidence, including accident scene photos, police reports, and medical records, to build a strong case and identify all liable parties.
  • Negotiation with Insurers: Experienced attorneys negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to counter lowball offers and secure adequate settlements.
  • Understanding Regulations: Truck accident lawyers are well-versed in federal and state trucking laws, essential for proving negligence and liability in truck accident cases.
  • Maximizing Compensation: A dedicated truck accident lawyer ensures victims get the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Does a Truck Accident Attorney Offer Free Evaluations?

All evaluations are free and you can always ask questions by phone or chat online. A qualified semi truck crash attorney and forensic specialists will be happy to help. Our lawyers represent drivers in truck collisions. We have experience handling truck accidents.

Do I Need a Truck Accident Law Firm?

You have to find experienced truck accident lawyers who are skilled at negotiating with insurance companies and determining liability. Truck crash attorneys have extensive experience dealing with the collisions of large commercial vehicles such as tractor trailers, 18 wheeled trucks, dump trucks, delivery trucks, flatbed trucks, taker trucks and more. A truck accident attorney has experience with trucking and driver insurance, and truck accident law. A trucking accident lawyer near you can find and prove the parties responsible.

Navigating the Complex World of Truck Accidents: Your Guide to Legal Support and Recovery

Truck accidents are among the most devastating incidents on the road, often resulting in severe injuries, significant property damage, and, in the worst cases, wrongful death. In North Carolina, the bustling highways see their fair share of these catastrophic events, making it essential for victims to understand their rights and the legal avenues available to them. This blog post aims to provide comprehensive insights into the world of truck accident law, focusing on the role of truck accident lawyers, the complexities of truck accident cases, and the crucial steps victims should take to secure the compensation they deserve. Each truck accident case is unique, requiring specialized legal assistance to navigate the specific circumstances and challenges involved.

The Critical Role of Truck Accident Lawyers

When a truck accident occurs, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Victims are often left dealing with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. This is where truck accident lawyers come into play. These legal professionals specialize in handling cases involving large commercial trucks, tractor trailers, and semi trucks. Their expertise is crucial in navigating the complexities of truck accident law, ensuring that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Why You Need an Experienced Truck Attorneys

Truck accident cases are not like typical car accidents. They involve multiple parties, including truck drivers, trucking companies, and insurance companies, all of whom may share liability. An experienced truck accident lawyer understands the intricacies of these cases and can effectively investigate the accident scene, gather vital evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Their goal is to hold the negligent parties accountable and secure compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and future medical expenses.

Understanding Truck Accidents in North Carolina

Truck accidents can occur for various reasons, from driver error to poor truck maintenance and improperly loaded cargo. In North Carolina, the trucking industry is governed by both state and federal regulations designed to ensure the safety of all road users. However, violations of these regulations are not uncommon, leading to tragic accidents.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

  1. Driver Error: Fatigue, distracted driving, and speeding are common factors contributing to truck accidents.
  2. Poor Truck Maintenance: Failure to maintain commercial vehicles properly can lead to equipment failure, increasing the risk of accidents.
  3. Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause a truck to become unstable, leading to crashes.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you are involved in a truck accident, it is crucial to take specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Ensure that you receive prompt medical care for any injuries sustained.
  2. Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
  3. Gather Information: Collect contact details of witnesses, the truck driver, and the trucking company. Also, obtain police reports and accident reports.
  4. Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer: Contact an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and legal options.

The Role of Truck Accident Attorneys in Your Case

Truck accident attorneys are invaluable in the aftermath of a truck crash. They provide the legal expertise needed to navigate the complexities of these cases, ensuring that victims can focus on their recovery while the legal aspects are handled professionally. Each truck accident case is unique and requires a thorough evaluation to determine its worth and the best approach for legal representation.

Investigating the Accident

An experienced truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, looking into factors such as truck maintenance records, driver logs, and compliance with trucking laws. They will identify all liable parties, whether it’s the truck driver, trucking company, or other negligent parties.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Truck accident attorneys have the skills to negotiate effectively, ensuring that victims receive fair compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. They are also prepared to take the case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Conclusion

Truck accidents in North Carolina can have life-altering consequences. Having a dedicated and experienced truck accident law firm on your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need to move forward. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional legal assistance.

If you have been injured by the negligence of others, Call the Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group at 980-239-2275 for a free consultation. We are the original “no win, no fee” attorneys. Don’t settle for less.

Filing a Truck Accident Claim: The Path to Justice and Compensation

Filing a truck accident claim can be a daunting process, but it is a critical step towards obtaining the justice and compensation you deserve. Each truck accident case is unique, requiring specialized legal assistance to navigate its complexities effectively. Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and significant emotional distress. Understanding the claims process and having an experienced truck accident attorney by your side can make this journey more manageable.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the legal landscape of a truck accident claim without professional help can be overwhelming. Truck accident lawyers bring invaluable expertise, ensuring that every aspect of your case is meticulously handled. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, their role is crucial in maximizing your compensation.

Steps in Filing a Truck Accident Claim

  1. Consultation with a Truck Accident Lawyer: The first step is to schedule a consultation with a truck accident lawyer. This meeting allows you to discuss the details of your case, understand your legal options, and establish a strategy for moving forward.
  2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident. This includes reviewing police reports, accident scene photos, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. They will also gather crucial documents like medical records and employment information to support your claim.
  3. Identifying Liable Parties: One of the complexities of truck accident cases is determining liability. Your lawyer will identify all responsible parties, which may include the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and others.
  4. Filing the Claim: Once sufficient evidence is gathered, your attorney will file the truck accident claim with the appropriate insurance companies. This claim will detail the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
  5. Negotiation and Settlement: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial.
  6. Litigation and Trial: If necessary, your attorney will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Challenges in Truck Accident Claims

Truck accident claims come with unique challenges that can complicate the pursuit of compensation. Being aware of these challenges and having a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer on your side can make a significant difference.

Multiple Liable Parties

Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties. The truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and even vehicle manufacturers can share responsibility for the accident. Identifying and proving the liability of these parties requires extensive legal expertise and thorough investigation.

Complex Insurance Policies

Trucking companies typically have complex insurance policies with high coverage limits. Navigating these policies and negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging without professional legal assistance. Truck accident attorneys have the experience to decipher these policies and advocate for your best interests.

Federal and State Regulations

The trucking industry is regulated by both federal and state laws. These regulations govern aspects such as driver hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. Violations of these regulations can significantly impact the outcome of your case. An experienced truck accident lawyer is well-versed in these laws and can leverage them to strengthen your claim.

Securing Compensation: What You Can Claim

The aftermath of a truck accident often involves substantial financial burdens. Understanding the types of compensation available can help you navigate the recovery process more effectively.

Medical Expenses

Truck accidents often result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment. You can seek compensation for medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and ongoing rehabilitation.

Lost Wages and Future Earnings

Injuries sustained in a truck accident may prevent you from working temporarily or permanently. Compensation for lost wages and future earning capacity is crucial to ensuring financial stability.

Pain and Suffering

The physical and emotional trauma resulting from a truck accident can significantly impact your quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges this impact and provides financial support for your recovery.

Property Damage

Truck accidents often cause extensive damage to vehicles and other property. Compensation for property damage can help cover repair or replacement costs.

Wrongful Death Claims

In tragic cases where a loved one loses their life in a truck accident, wrongful death claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Truck Accident Law Firm

Selecting the right truck accident law firm is crucial to the success of your case. Look for a firm with a proven track record in handling truck accident cases, a deep understanding of trucking laws, and a commitment to client advocacy.

Free Consultation and No Win, No Fee Guarantee

Many reputable truck accident law firms offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide initial legal advice. Additionally, a no win, no fee guarantee ensures that you only pay legal fees if your case is successful, making legal representation accessible to everyone.

If you have been injured by the negligence of others, Call the Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group at 980-239-2275 for a free consultation. We are the original “no win, no fee” attorneys. Don’t settle for less.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Ensuring Fair Compensation

Dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident can be one of the most challenging aspects of seeking compensation. Experienced truck accident lawyers are skilled at negotiating with insurance companies, understanding liability, and handling communication and settlements on behalf of accident victims. Insurance companies are often more interested in protecting their bottom line than providing fair settlements. This section delves into the strategies and importance of having a skilled truck accident lawyer negotiate on your behalf.

The Role of Insurance Companies

Insurance companies play a crucial role in the aftermath of a truck accident. They are responsible for compensating victims for their injuries, property damage, and other losses. However, their primary goal is to minimize payouts, which can lead to unfair settlement offers.

Challenges in Dealing with Insurance Companies

  1. Complex Policies: Trucking companies typically have intricate insurance policies with high coverage limits. Understanding these policies and the coverage they provide requires legal expertise.
  2. Lowball Offers: Insurance adjusters often make initial settlement offers that are significantly lower than what victims deserve. These offers are designed to close cases quickly and cheaply.
  3. Denial of Claims: In some cases, insurance companies may deny valid claims altogether, arguing that the policy does not cover the accident or that the victim was at fault.
  4. Delaying Tactics: Insurance companies may use delaying tactics to wear down victims, hoping they will accept a lower settlement out of frustration or financial necessity.

Strategies for Successful Negotiation

Having an experienced truck accident lawyer negotiate with insurance companies can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. Here are some strategies they employ:

  1. Thorough Documentation: Your lawyer will gather comprehensive evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, to build a strong case.
  2. Expert Analysis: They may work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to provide detailed analysis and support your claim.
  3. Accurate Valuation: An experienced lawyer will accurately calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, ensuring that you seek adequate compensation.
  4. Aggressive Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters, countering lowball offers and pushing for a fair settlement.
  5. Willingness to Litigate: If negotiations fail to yield a fair settlement, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court, demonstrating to the insurance company that you are serious about securing the compensation you deserve.

The Importance of Evidence in Truck Accident Cases

Evidence is the cornerstone of any successful truck accident claim. It provides the necessary proof to establish liability, demonstrate the extent of your injuries, and justify your claim for compensation. Here’s a look at the types of evidence that are crucial in truck accident cases.

Types of Evidence

  1. Accident Scene Evidence: Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and skid marks can provide valuable information about how the accident occurred.
  2. Police Reports: Official police reports document the details of the accident, including statements from involved parties and witnesses. They often include the officer’s assessment of fault.
  3. Medical Records: Comprehensive medical records are essential for proving the extent of your injuries, the treatment you received, and the impact on your life.
  4. Witness Statements: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident can corroborate your version of events and provide additional perspectives.
  5. Driver Logs and Records: Truck drivers are required to maintain logs of their hours of service. These logs can reveal violations of regulations that may have contributed to the accident.
  6. Maintenance Records: Records of the truck’s maintenance history can uncover issues such as poor truck maintenance or equipment failure.
  7. Expert Testimony: Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts, can provide detailed analysis and testimony to support your claim.

Preserving Evidence

Preserving evidence is crucial in the aftermath of a truck accident. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Ensure that your injuries are documented as soon as possible after the accident.
  2. Report the Accident: File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
  3. Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
  4. Keep Records: Maintain copies of all medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies.
  5. Consult a Lawyer: Contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to help gather and preserve crucial evidence.

The Benefits of Having a Dedicated Truck Accident Lawyer

Having a dedicated truck accident lawyer on your side provides numerous benefits, ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome for your case. Here’s how a lawyer can help:

Expert Legal Guidance

Truck accident lawyers specialize in this area of law and have a deep understanding of the regulations and complexities involved. They provide expert legal guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Thorough Case Management

From gathering evidence to filing paperwork and negotiating with insurance companies, a dedicated lawyer manages every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Maximizing Compensation

An experienced lawyer knows how to accurately value your claim, considering all factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future financial needs. They work to maximize your compensation, ensuring you are fully compensated for your losses.

Peace of Mind

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Having a lawyer handle the legal aspects of your case provides peace of mind, knowing that your case is in capable hands.

If you have been injured by the negligence of others, Call the Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group at 980-239-2275 for a free consultation. We are the original “no win, no fee” attorneys. Don’t settle for less.…

Engine Braking or Jake Braking – What Are They?

Engine Braking vs. Jake Braking: What’s the Difference?

Engine braking and jake braking are two different techniques used for slowing down a vehicle. While both types of braking can be useful in certain situations, they each have unique advantages and drawbacks that you should be aware of before using them on the road. So, what is the difference between engine braking and jake braking, and which method is right for you?

If you’ve ever been involved in an accident with a truck, you may have heard the term “jake brake” used. But what is a jake brake, and how is it different from regular engine braking? Let’s take a closer look.

So What Are The Differences?

What does engine breaking mean?

Engine braking is a technique used to slow down a vehicle by using the engine to resist forward momentum. This is accomplished by shifting the transmission into a lower gear so that the engine speed increases while the vehicle speed decreases. Engine braking can be useful when descending a long, steep hill because it helps to control the speed of the vehicle and prevent it from getting too fast.

Jake braking, on the other hand, is a type of engine braking that uses compression to slow down the vehicle. Compression is when the pistons in the engine move up and compress the air in the cylinders. This compression creates resistance that slows down the engine and, as a result, also slows down the vehicle. Jake brakes are often used by trucks when descending long, steep hills because they are very effective at controlling the speed of the vehicle. However, they can also be very noisy, which is why you may have heard them referred to as “jackelopes.”

Advantages of Engine Braking

There are a few key advantages of engine braking that make it a useful technique for driving down steep hills. First, since it relies on the vehicle’s engine rather than external devices like brakes or jake brakes, engine braking is always available and doesn’t require any additional components. This makes it a great choice for drivers who want to improve their fuel economy, since using the engine to slow down the vehicle rather than relying on external brakes or jake brakes can help to minimize fuel use.

Another advantage of engine braking is that it is typically much quieter than jake braking. Because it doesn’t involve compression or other high-intensity methods of slowing down a vehicle, engine braking is generally less jarring and less disruptive to other drivers on the road.

Disadvantages of Engine Braking

Although there are many benefits to engine braking, it does have some drawbacks as well. One big disadvantage is that it can take a lot of time to slow down a vehicle using this technique. This makes engine braking more suitable for driving down longer, continuous hills—for example, driving down a long mountain road to go skiing or hiking—but not necessarily for shorter hills or when you need to come to a sudden stop.

Another potential drawback of engine braking is that it can put additional strain on the vehicle’s engine. Because engine braking relies on increasing engine speed rather than using external brakes, it can cause the engine to heat up more quickly and wear out faster. This may require you to do additional maintenance or replacement parts in the future.

Advantages of Jake Braking

Jake braking, on the other hand, has several advantages that make it a great choice for descending long or steep hills. One big advantage is that jake brakes are very effective at slowing down the vehicle quickly, which makes them ideal when you need to come to a sudden stop. This can be especially important in situations such as driving down busy streets or highways, where you need to slow down quickly in order to avoid collisions.

Another advantage of jake braking is that it can be used at any speed and doesn’t require a continuous descent. For example, if you encounter an unexpected obstacle on the road such as a stalled car or an accident, jake braking can help you to slow down quickly and safely in order to avoid a collision. This can be especially helpful when you are driving large trucks or other heavy vehicles that may not be able to stop as quickly using external brakes or engine braking alone.

There are also some environmental advantages of jake braking since it reduces the need for additional fuel consumption by braking systems. This can help to minimize your vehicle’s carbon footprint and reduce the overall impact of driving on the environment.

Despite these advantages, however, jake braking does have some potential downsides as well.

Disadvantages of Jake Braking

One major disadvantage is that it can be very loud and disruptive to other drivers on the road, which may lead to complaints or even accidents. This is especially true if you are driving in a residential area or through a school zone, where other drivers may be more sensitive to the noise and vibrations produced by jake braking.

Another potential drawback of jake braking is that it can put additional strain on your vehicle’s engine and exhaust system. Because of the high intensity at which jake brakes work, they can cause the engine to heat up more quickly and increase wear on these components. This may require you to do additional maintenance or replacement parts in the future.

 

If you’re experiencing problems with your Kenworth Jake Brake, it’s important to have it fixed as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road. The Jake Brake is an important component of your engine braking system, which is designed to slow down your vehicle without relying solely on your brakes. This helps reduce wear and tear on your brakes and improves their longevity, while also reducing the risk of brake failure.

If your Kenworth Jake Brake isn’t working properly, there could be a number of potential causes, including a malfunctioning solenoid, air leak, or electrical issue. It’s important to have a qualified mechanic inspect your vehicle to identify the root cause of the problem and make the necessary repairs. Ignoring the issue could lead to serious safety risks, particularly when driving downhill or in slippery conditions. By addressing the issue promptly, you can get back on the road with confidence and peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is operating safely and reliably.

Conclusion:

Both engine braking and jake braking are techniques that can be used to slow down a vehicle. Engine braking is accomplished by shifting into a lower gear, while jake braking uses compression to resist forward momentum. Jake brakes are often used by trucks because they are very effective at controlling speed; however, they can also be very noisy.

If a truck fails to brake properly and causes a wreck with you, you may be able to seek compensation. With the help of The Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group, you can get the legal support and advice that you need to navigate this difficult time. So don’t delay – call 980-239-2275 today for your free consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer.​

As one of the leading groups of car accident lawyers in Charlotte, NC, The Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group can help you evaluate your options and get the compensation that you deserve. Whether you are dealing with severe injuries, extensive property damage, or lost wages due to missed work, we have the experience and resources to help you pursue a claim against the negligent driver who caused your accident. Don’t hesitate – call (980) 239-2275 now to set up your free consultation with one of our experienced accident lawyers. We are here for you every step of the way.​

 

 

 
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Oversized and Heavy Trucks Cause Accidents

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Truck drivers spend most of their time on the road and they have a couple of responsibilities when driving, particularly with regards to weight. In most instances, the truck driver is responsible for loading and unloading goods in the truck. Oversized and heavy trucks cause accidents on the highways.

However, the trucking industry is prone to malice and some companies will try to fit in as much load to the vehicle as possible, maxing out the weight limit. The chances of a truck accident in an overloaded vehicle are as much as three times greater than a truck within the required limits.

Oversized and Heavy Trucks Cause Accidents on Our Roads

The risk involved in driving large commercial trucks is that it is difficult to control the truck due to its heavy momentum. Also, most times, overloaded truck drivers will tend to drive faster to fulfill interests laid out by the trucking company. Such speeds make it easy to skid or lose control during a minor swerve.

How Does The Law Define A Truck?

Just to be cautious enough, it is crucial to know the exact definition of trucks since we’ll be going through an in-depth review of trucking accidents. The official definition of a truck as used by North Carolina authorities state that “a truck is any vehicle registered with a weight of 10,000 pounds or more.” This definition is broad and includes a wide range of vehicles such as:

  • Box trucks
  • Construction and industrial vehicles
  • Tractor-trailers (semis, 18-wheelers, or big rigs)
  • Garbage trucks
  • Bobtail dump trucks
  • Some emergency vehicles
  • Specialty trucks
  • Other large commercial vehicles

As you can see, quite a number of vehicles fall into this category and in this context, our definition of a truck will include all of them.

What Are The Causes Of Truck Accidents?

Just like any other vehicle accident, truck accidents occur due to a number of reasons. Here, we review the most common causes of trucking accidents, especially for North Carolina residents. We’ll look at details of each cause and possibly check the current statistics and data, if available.

Lack of proper control of a vehicle

Truck driving requires a skilled driver and there may be some instances when it becomes difficult to do this. First off, overspeeding makes it challenging to make the truck stop whenever an emergency occurs. Skilled truck drivers will notice whenever they exceed the speed limits as the truck often seems a bit “lighter” and easily swayed when you swerve. A flatbed truck is more likely to roll over when over speeding on a highway exit ramp.

Also, lack of truck control can be caused by jackknifing. In jackknifing, the truck part of the vehicle does not move in harmony with the front part and moves perpendicular to the driver’s section. This motion can cause serious accidents if other vehicles are on the way. In some rare instances, Jackknifing can cause the truck to stop and not necessarily cause a serious accident.

Finally, drunk and drugged driving can easily rob the truck driver’s ability to properly control the truck. Drugs and alcohol impair one’s judgment and are a common problem amongst truck drivers all over the United States. Since truck drivers go for long distances before reaching the destination, they are more likely to take stimulants to keep them awake.

Driver Inattention

Driver inattention is one of the major causes of truck accidents in North Carolina and has been reported to cause as much as 35 percent of all collisions and 37 percent of all fatal collisions. There are a couple of instances of inattention, let’s have a look.

  • Screens and other in-truck distractions. It is wrong to text and drives as the second you take your eyes off the road, you add more risk of losing control, driving the wrong lane, and possibly causing an accident. But apart from using phones, anything that takes your hands off the wheel, mind, or eyes off the road is a serious distraction. It is easy to make a simple mistake when distracted and cause serious trucking accidents.

 

  • Truck driving is typically a long-distance affair and the truck driver gets tired or drowsy at times. Driving a large truck requires full focus and attention, keeping the truck’s motion in check, and making sure you are aware of passenger vehicles passing through the blind spots.

Inability to give the right of way

There are often situations when two vehicles share the same stretch of road and it is contention between who should give way first. The tension is even much higher when large trucks are involved. The rule of thumb is that when one vehicle is larger than the other, the larger car should give way to the smaller passenger vehicles since they are more vulnerable to an accident.

However, most commercial truck drivers ignore this fact consequently causing heavy truck accidents. Below are some factors that cause accidents involving the inability to give way.

  • If you have ever traveled across the I-85 stretch in Charlotte, NC, then you have been in one of the worst intersections of North Carolina. It is especially dangerous for heavy and large trucks due to its downhill nature making it difficult to control the vehicle when there are faulty brakes or transmission. In such cases, the truck driver will need to swerve across the other lane to avoid rear crashes which can get in the way of oncoming vehicles, risking the right of way.

 

  • When there is traffic along roads that merge to highways, commercial drivers need to slow down until it is safe to join the highway lane. Heavy trucks need even more space, especially if they are on the highway and need to let other vehicles pass through. When not calculated properly heavy trucks on the highway or on-ramp may risk hitting smaller vehicles and turning them off the road.

 

  • Blind spots. If you are a driver, then you are aware all cars have blind spots. But it is even larger in heavy trucks. Blind spots in trucks cover all four sides, so it is important to make sure the truck driver is able to see you. To know if you are in a truck’s blind spot, make sure you can see the driver through the rear mirrors. Otherwise, if you can’t, you are in their blind spot. It is easy to get fatal crashes if you are in a truck’s blind spot because when they change lanes, they won’t be able to see you.

Truck Drivers Miscalculating height clearance

Trucks are heavy vehicles and occupy a lot of space on the road. So, it is important for drivers to be careful when passing through bridges and overpasses on highways. However, North Carolina has recorded plenty of accidents involving such instances when drivers misjudge height clearance of large trucks although most are not fatal. Trucks still bear the damage and, in some cases, debris left in the path might cause secondary collisions.

Other causes of truck accidents in Charlotte, NC include:

  • Tires burst from an overload of vehicle
  • Neglected truck maintenance
  • Excessive liquid carried in trucks may constantly shift the center of gravity
  • Unfamiliarity with roadway
  • Roadway issues
  • Unqualified car drivers

Common Accidents Associated With Oversized And Heavy Trucks?

Oversized trucks create a lot of danger both to the passengers and other vehicles on the road. Accidents involving oversized trucks can be in a number of ways like:

Blown tires

Trucks have tires fitted to withstand a certain amount of pressure. When it is loaded with overweight materials, sometimes the pressure can be too much and the tires explode. Tire blowouts are quite dangerous as the driver loses control quite easily and risks a major commercial truck accident.

At high speeds, especially if the trucker is attempting to change lanes and suffers a blow out, this can lead to serious injury and serious property damage.

 

Rollovers

More often, overloaded trucks do not have the weight distributed properly in the truck. This can increase the chances of the vehicle rolling over due to a lack of proper control. Truck rollovers happen in steep lanes, sharp corners, and in conditions of high winds which affect the vehicle’s forward motion.

Although the FMCSA regulates and issues a DOT card to qualified drivers, prescription drug use, distracted driving and even illegal drugs can lead to accidents as a truck begins to loos control.

Rollovers will take up all the travel lane causing disruption for other motorists leaving a disabled vehicle completely across the roadway. Other drivers may panic creating rear end collisions with other passenger vehicle, delivery trucks, etc.

Jackknife accidents

At times when trucks come to a sudden stop, the brakes may not be effective due to their weight and the tractor-trailers can continue to move forward. It is a common mistake inexperienced car drivers make and can lead to serious accidents.

Jackknife crashes mostly occur at highway intersections or when there is a development of traffic. It is crucial to leave enough stopping distance for large trucks and the distance is even longer in trucks carrying oversized loads.

This same accident can result in t bone accidents and rear end crashes regardless of driver training and driving skills. These accidents can result in property damage and lost wages.

How Do I Get Compensation In A Truck Accident?

Truck accidents are mostly fatal and can leave multiple injuries to the victim. In some cases, the injuries are life-changing. You may have emotional injuries like PTSD, or other stress disorders due to truck accidents. It may also affect someone physically leaving you with disabling injuries and a ton of medical bills. Some serious injuries may lead to loss of work.

So, do you really get compensation if any of these things happen?

Compensation for large truck accidents will depend on a lot of things, but will most likely be available to you. It is crucial to know that truck accident attorneys are your best bet at helping you get compensation.

First off, all trucks are obliged to a certain amount of insurance in case an accident occurs due to driver error. The insurance for trucks and semi-trucks is usually higher because more fatal accidents are likely to occur due to truck crashes.

The federal law states that all trucking companies operating in interstate commerce on U.S roads need to have minimum liability coverage of $750,000 when moving non-hazardous goods. The amount goes further up if the truck is transporting dangerous or hazardous materials and can be well over $5 million in liability coverage.

Victims of truck accidents usually get compensation directly from the insurance company and in rare cases where the insurance company doesn’t seem to be compliant, the victim can claim against the trucking companies.

Depending on the outcome of the truck accident, there may be several types of compensation truck accident injury claims can cover. These include:

  • Loss of future income
  • Trauma or emotional injury (loss of quality life, PTSD, or other stress-related injuries)
  • Medical expenses
  • Damage to vehicle or property
  • Continuing medical expenses

It is crucial to note that compensation is never guaranteed in all large truck accident cases.  It has to be determined by the judge and the verdict depends on the circumstances and unique facts of the case.

How To Avoid A Commercial Truck Accident

Most of the time, truck accidents are caused by the drivers and we should agree that we can all play a part in reducing the number of truck accidents in North Carolina(including the trucking companies).

The goal is to reduce accidents involving passenger vehicle, vehicle occupants and especially tanker trucks.

That said, here are three important tips to keep in mind while driving large and heavy trucks.

Always drive at a safe speed despite the speed limit

Speed limits are placed on roads as general guidelines to follow. However, it may not cater to large-sized vehicles and certain driving situations. As long as you haven’t exceeded the speed limit, always drive according to how well you can control the truck. Keep in mind the vehicles, passers-by, passengers, and other drivers around you.

The motor carrier safety administration publishes guidelines relating to speed, unsafe passing and trucks involved in speed related accidents. Drivers approaching truck’s speed tend to have a higher chance for tire blowout. With this outcome, the driver will lose control and have a higher chance of hitting smaller vehicles or other motorists and potentially inflict catastrophic injury.

With a combination of high speeds and distracted driving serious property damage and serious injury can occur; even at normal highway speeds.

Heavy trucks need space

When driving large trucks, always remember that the larger the vehicle, the bigger the truck driver’s blind spot and the more potential for fatal accidents. Commercial truck drivers need to pay close attention to smaller cars who get in the blind spot easily and give them enough room to keep you both in a safe driving distance.

The gross vehicle weight rating will indicate increase room for acceptable stopping distances. By allowing increased stopping distances, truck crash with passenger car can be reduced.

Trucking Companies

Screen their drivers to ensure that they are in compliance with all federal rules.

Get Enough Rest First

It might seem impossible for a busy truck driver who works all week long to get some rest, but it is still important. Driving when you’ve not had enough rest can cause you to drive no different than a drunk driver. Yes, whenever you take your eyes off the road and worse, doze off, you are more likely to cause a fatal accident if on a busy road.

Call us at 980-239-2275 for a free case evaluation. It is important to remember that common unsafe acts committed by the trucking industry are regulated by the federal motor carrier safety administration.

Accidents are almost instant and all it takes is a few microseconds and you are in the wrong lane with an oncoming car at a high speed. So, get some rest after every shift or before starting a driving shift to avoid instances of dozing off the wheel. Generally, as long as you follow every Federal Motor Carrier Safety, you should be fine.

If you or your loved one is a victim of truck accidents and needs help, don’t hesitate to contact your top truck accident attorneys today. We will give a free quote, free case evaluation and make sure you get the rightful compensation. Call The Charlotte NC Car Accident Lawyers Group at 980-239-2275 today!

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