Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries and even fatalities. Understanding the unique dangers associated with these accidents is crucial for both truck drivers and other motorists on the road. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that make truck accidents so dangerous. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, the experienced team at Klein DeNatale Goldner is here to provide the legal support you need.
Size and Weight
One of the primary factors contributing to the danger of truck accidents is the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. A fully-loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger car only weighs around 3,000 pounds. The immense disparity in size increases the force of impact during a collision, leading to devastating consequences for occupants of smaller vehicles.
Braking Distance
Trucks require a significantly longer distance to come to a complete stop compared to passenger cars. The momentum generated by their mass necessitates substantial braking distances, especially when traveling at high speeds. If a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, or if an unexpected obstacle appears on the road, the chances of a catastrophic rear-end collision become alarmingly high.
Blind Spots
Truck drivers have extensive blind spots in the areas around the truck where smaller vehicles become invisible. These blind spots are located on the sides, rear, and front of the truck. A car driving in these zones may go unnoticed by the truck driver, leading to accidents during lane changes or while merging into traffic.
Rollover Potential
Trucks, especially those carrying top-heavy or improperly secured cargo, have a higher risk of rolling over during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. Rollover accidents can result in spillage of hazardous materials or the truck landing on smaller vehicles, causing significant damage and injury.
Fatigue and Driver Error
Truck drivers often cover long distances in a single journey, leading to fatigue and drowsiness. Despite regulations limiting driving hours, some drivers may push their limits, compromising their reaction times and overall awareness. This combination of fatigue and driver error can lead to devastating accidents on the road.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the cab. This can happen when the truck's wheels lose traction, and the driver is unable to maintain control. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes, involving several vehicles in the collision, and leading to chaos on the road.
Cargo Spillage
Improperly secured cargo or hazardous materials in trucks can lead to cargo spillage in the event of an accident. Spilled cargo on the road poses a threat to other vehicles, increasing the risk of secondary collisions or environmental hazards.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact the skilled team at Klein DeNatale Goldner. We ready to assist you with expert legal representation.