Truck accidents continue to plague our roadways

Semi-truck accidents remain a problem across America. In fact, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that in 2017, approximately 450,000 accidents involving big trucks were reported. More than 4,000 of these crashes were fatal in nature, and more than 300,000 of them resulted in injuries. The vast majority of these injuries and deaths are suffered by individuals in other vehicles, as well. This is likely because large trucks can cause significantly more damage to passenger vehicles than passenger vehicles can cause to semi-trucks.

There are a number of reasons why truck accidents continue to occur at a regular rate. Speeding truckers account for a significant number of accidents, but there are still a large number of truckers who are drunk or high behind the wheel. This intoxication can impair their ability to multitask, remain appropriately aware of their surroundings and accurately judge traffic conditions and stopping distances.

Despite regulations placing limitations on hours of operation, many truck drivers end up driving while fatigued. These truckers can nod off, causing them to veer out of their lanes, fail to slow for stopped traffic and neglect to yield to pedestrians. Any of these errors can result in a serious motor vehicle accident that leaves unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians at risk of suffering serious injuries and death.

Sadly, even though awareness of truck accidents and negligent driving appears to be increasing, wrecks caused by negligent drivers will continue to occur well into the foreseeable future. This means that thousands of individuals will have to find a way to cope in the aftermath of a tragic accident that may leave them with disabling injuries or the loss of a loved one. As hopeless as that situation may seem, legal action can help provide relief. By pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against a negligent trucker and the company for which he or she works, victims may be able to recover the compensation they need to achieve a sense of closure and find financial stability while they focus on their recovery.