A large truck is a vehicle with a weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds. Since these trucks usually weigh about 20 to 30 times more than a car, a crash with one of them can have devastating consequences, often for the smaller vehicle’s driver and /or passengers.

According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Over 330,000 significant truck accidents occurred in the United States in 2012.
• These accidents killed nearly 4,000 people and injured over 100,000.
• 63% of substantial commercial truck accidents happen on rural roads, and
• 83% of truck accidents occur during the weekdays.
• A truck rollover accounted for just 5% of accidents.

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) found an alarming trend involving significant truck accidents. According to the statistics:

• Close to 4,000 people died in commercial trucking accidents in 2016.
• 17% of these deaths were truck drivers, and
• 66% were occupants of cars and other vehicles.
• 16% were motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
• The number of people killed in truck accidents was 27% higher in 2016 than in 2009.
• The number of truck drivers killed was 47% higher in 2016 than in 2009.

Tractor trailers and semis are subject to special rules and regulations. The laws are implemented to protect other drivers on the road and reduce accidents. Federal and state laws require trucks to be inspected and maintained regularly. There’s a size and weight limit for the vehicles and the freight they lug in California. Truck drivers must also have a special license and are limited to certain driving hours.

Despite federal and state laws, accidents involving large commercial trucks still occur. The reasons for the accidents vary, including the driver’s negligence or recklessness. Some other common causes include:

• Adverse weather and road conditions
• Driver fatigue
• Driver mistake
• Distracted driving
• Failure to inspect tires and brakes
• Defective parts
• Impaired driving (alcohol and/or drug abuse)
• Overweight trailers
• Speeding
• Transport of hazardous material
• Truck company negligence

Significant truck accidents can cause serious injuries or death. Those who sustain injuries often face a long, painful, and expensive road to recovery. Some common injuries suffered in a truck accident include:

• Back injuries
• Broken bones
• Head and neck injuries
• Internal organ injuries
• Paralysis
• Rib and torso injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Wrongful death

Nothing is more devastating than getting into an accident with a large truck. Your injuries may be life-threatening, and medical costs can add up to tens of thousands. Your insurance company may not cover all your expenses, and you may have difficulties just trying to get back to your life.

The following video provides safety tips on how to avoid all four blind spots of a semi-truck.

What do I need to do in the next few days after a truck accident?

Following the days after a truck accident, continue getting treatment and keep track of all your doctor’s visits, including out-of-pocket expenses. Keep a journal and write down any pain or symptoms you experience. Keep track of how many workdays you’ve missed. Get a property damage valuation from your insurance company. If possible, get a copy of the police report for your accident.

What should I do if the other party’s insurance company calls me?

Don’t admit fault, and don’t discuss the accident with anyone except the police or your insurance company. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company. Don’t sign any paperwork from the other party’s insurance company. If you’ve secured a truck accident lawyer, refer the insurance company to your attorney.

How much will it cost to hire a truck accident attorney?

Most lawyers charge their fees on a contingency basis. That means the lawyer only gets paid if he or she receives a settlement for you, and the lawyer then takes a small, pre-determined percentage of the settlement.

How long do I have to file a claim after a truck accident?

In California, the statute of limitations is two years from the accident date. But don’t wait too long. It’s best to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident so significant evidence can be preserved.

Insurance companies hardly cover all the expenses and losses that result from an accident, and trucking companies usually try to reduce payments and dispute victims’ insurance claims. Trucking and insurance companies frequently apply tactics to add to the expense and trauma of being seriously injured. When negotiations fail to get fair compensation for victims and their families, pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit may be the appropriate course of action.

More resources from our Loomis Truck Accident Attorneys ~

• Underride and Override Trucking Accidents
• Trucking Accidents Related to Braking or Jackknifing

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a commercial truck, you may have a right to recover funds for your losses and other expenses. Call our experienced Loomis truck accident attorneys at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 to receive some free, friendly legal advice. You also contact us online.

See a list of our past cases on our verdicts and settlements page.

^{Editor’s Note: updated [cha 6.6.23] Photo by Mikes Photos from Pexels cha bw [cs 1251]}