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It’s crucial that your attorney gets the opportunity to visit the 18-wheeler accident site as soon as possible. Once we are retained, we start working right away! Our personal injury law firm uses highly regarded accident reconstruction experts who use advanced methods to investigate and document the evidence at the accident scene.
According to tripnet.org, even though large trucks only make up 5% of registered vehicles on the road, they are involved in 13% of accident fatalities. From 2017 to 2021, the number of deaths in large truck crashes increased by 18%, from 4,906 to 5,788.
In 18-wheeler wrecks, most deaths occur in the passenger vehicle involved. Truck braking capability can be a factor in these crashes. Loaded tractor-trailers require 10–40% more distance to stop, and this increases on wet and slippery roads or if the truck has poorly maintained brakes. Truck driver fatigue is also a risk factor. Government regulations allow drivers of large trucks to drive up to 11 hours at a stretch, but many drivers violate these rules and work longer than they should (McCartt et al., 2008).
According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, in 2022 there were 10,452 truck crashes resulting in 162 fatalities and 2,417 injuries. Improper lane changes or failing to yield the right-of-way accounted for over 25% of recorded crashes. Thirty percent of the accidents took place on interstates, and 55 of those 3,117 crashes led to fatalities.
If you’re interested in big truck wreck statistics and where and how they occur, you can visit truckinfo.net, which lists Alabama as the 8th highest state for truck accidents per capita.
Liability in a tractor-trailer truck accident can be complex and may involve multiple parties. The primary liable party is often the truck driver if negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence, is proven. However, the trucking company can also be held liable if it is found that they failed to properly maintain the vehicle, did not adequately train the driver, or violated regulations regarding driver hours and rest periods. Additionally, liability can extend to the manufacturer of the truck or its parts if a mechanical failure due to a defect caused the accident. In some cases, other drivers involved in the accident may share liability if their actions contributed to the crash. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation of the accident circumstances, including reviewing the truck’s maintenance records, driver logs, accident scene investigation, and any available video footage or witness testimonies.
Semi-truck accidents in Alabama are often caused by driver fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, and aggressive driving. Inadequate vehicle maintenance, such as brake failures and tire blowouts, also play a significant role. Adverse weather conditions and poorly maintained roads further heighten the risk of accidents. Improper cargo loading, leading to shifting loads and instability, is another common cause of accidents in the state.
In Florence, Alabama, semi-truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of these large vehicles. Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can occur when victims hit their heads against hard surfaces or from the violent shaking during the crash. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes. Spinal cord injuries are also prevalent, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis depending on the severity and location of the damage. Victims might face a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Alabama, victims of 18-wheeler wrecks may be entitled to substantial compensation for their losses. This compensation can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy. Victims can also seek compensation for lost wages if the injuries prevent them from working, as well as for loss of earning capacity if they are unable to return to their previous employment. Additionally, compensation may include pain and suffering, addressing both physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. In cases where a loved one is lost in an 18-wheeler wreck, family members may pursue wrongful death claims to cover funeral expenses and the loss of companionship. Given the complexity of these cases, involving multiple liable parties and significant damages, victims are often advised to seek legal assistance to navigate the claims process and ensure they receive the full compensation they are entitled to.
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