Truck Accidents … Crucial Information To Know
In 2015 an estimated 37,461 victims lost their lives in 34,439 fatal motor-vehicle crashes. With so many accidents each year, large trucking companies and insurance providers are subject to a significant amount of liability for losses arising from accidents. For this reason, they employ their own high-powered defense lawyers to protect their interests. You need to even the playing field by employing experienced attorney Bernard M. Tully to protect your rights.
With 35 (5-star) Google reviews, you can trust Bernard M. Tully Attorney at Law’s experience to best represent you.
Our firm has experience representing individuals who have been involved in the following types of trucking accidents:
- Accidents involving 18-wheelers
- Jackknife truck incidents
- Accidents involving bucket trucks
- Accidents involving garbage trucks
- Accidents involving commercial buses
Garbage Truck Accidents
Accidents involving garbage trucks are fairly common. Companies operating waste vehicles include private sanitation trucks, private carting company trucks, sanitation trucks operated by municipal governments and dump trucks employed by the construction industry.
Jackknife Truck Accidents
A jackknife accident occurs when an 18-wheeler tractor trailer skids resulting in a 90-degree right angle between the tractor and trailer. Causes of such accidents include driver error, poor road conditions, defective tires or brakes, and driver fatigue. The loss of control in a jackknife accident is extremely dangerous as the trailer may swing into the roadway and block several lanes of traffic, resulting in hazardous conditions for potentially many cars on the road.
Bucket Truck Accidents
A bucket truck is a vehicle with a boom attached that allows the worker to be lifted to a high elevation to complete his duties, such as a worker repairing a telephone pole. Common bucket truck accidents include hydraulic system failure, flipping/overturning of the bucket, electrocutions where the buckets makes contact with power lines and power failures that can cause the bucket to malfunction and overturn.
Accidents Involving 18-Wheelers
An 18-wheeler hauling an average load can weigh between 55,000 and 80,000 pounds, versus an average car that weighs approximately 3,000 pounds. This massive weight difference combined with common driver errors such as a driver’s lack of attention, fatigue and even driving under the influence can lead to dangerous and even deadly accidents. Also, many 18-wheelers transport hazardous materials that pose additional risks should an accident occur.
Accidents Involving Commercial Buses
With 18-Wheelers, the sheer mass of a large commuter bus poses significant dangers should an accident occur. In addition, passengers on board can suffer significant injuries should the driver suddenly stop or crash into another vehicle.
What Should I do if I have been Injured in a Trucking Accident?
- Call the police immediately so that the accident is documented.
- Cooperate with the responding officers.
- Collect as much information at the scene as you can.
- Seek medical treatment immediately.
- Speak to personal injury lawyer, Bernard M. Tully to ensure that your rights are protected.
Experienced truck accident firm, Bernard M. Tully can help you with gathering evidence such as; the driver’s logbook, GPS information, and the driving history including any violations that he or she was involved in. We also handle witness statements like eyewitnesses and first responders. We will utilize our expertise to ensure that you and your loved ones are adequately compensated for your losses. Contact us today to learn how we can help you!