Did you know that in the United States, a truck accident claims a life every 15 minutes? Shockingly, there are approximately 500,000 trucking accidents each year within the country. Out of this staggering number, approximately 1% of the victims lose their lives. Traffic laws distinguish themselves when it comes to big rigs or commercial trucks due to the fundamental principles of physics. Commercial trucks weigh an average of 80,000 pounds, while a passenger automobile weighs a mere 3,000 pounds. Given this significant discrepancy in size, accidents involving large trucks can have devastating consequences. Truck drivers encounter limited or no visibility within the truck’s blind spots, and their acceleration and braking capabilities are also constrained. Furthermore, trucks are prone to jackknifing, especially during abrupt braking and turns. However, if jackknifing occurs due to unforeseen road conditions or the need to avoid obstructions, the driver cannot be held accountable. Truck drivers must possess a specialized license and undergo specific training. As representatives of a trucking or shipping company, they also share in the liability for any negligence exhibited on the road.

Should passenger vehicles be absolved of any blame?

Passenger vehicle drivers should be aware of the actions that are appropriate or inappropriate when sharing the road with large commercial trucks.

Passenger vehicle drivers should refrain from engaging in the following behaviors:

• Driving left of center into oncoming traffic.
• Unsafe passing maneuvers.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Failing to comply with stop signs or traffic lights.
• Following other vehicles too closely.
• Exceeding the speed limit.
• Driving inattentively.
• Traveling within the truck’s blind spots, known as “no-zones.”
• Improperly merging in front of a truck.

If a collision occurs, and it is determined that the passenger vehicle driver has engaged in any or all of the aforementioned behaviors, the blame may be shifted away from the truck driver. Conversely, a truck driver may be deemed liable for the collision if they lack sufficient training or if they were driving while fatigued or under time pressure. The trucking company also bears responsibility if they have implemented compensation systems that encourage excessive speed.

What should you do if you are involved in a truck accident?

In accidents involving large trucks, the occupants of the other vehicle often sustain severe injuries. To ensure you receive fair compensation, it is crucial to adhere to the following guidelines immediately following the collision:

Do’s:

• Promptly report the accident, providing only essential details.
• Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained.
• File an official police report and obtain a copy for your records.
• Submit your insurance claim, providing the necessary facts to the insurance adjuster.

Donts

• Refrain from admitting fault, as liability in such cases can be complex and involve multiple parties.
• Avoid apologizing for any injuries you may have suffered.
• Refrain from providing any written or recorded statements until consulting with your lawyer.

Your actions in the initial hours or days following a truck accident are crucial for securing proper compensation for your injuries and losses. Enlisting the guidance of an attorney will prevent insurance investigators, trucking companies, and other involved parties from downplaying your losses or offering inadequate compensation.

The post Seeking Legal Recourse after a Truck Accident: Recovering Injuries and Losses appeared first on Empire Law Group, Las Vegas car accident attorney Dan J. Lovell.

Las Vegas Truck Accidents Attorney

Have you or your loved ones been injured in accidents involving big trucks? Because of their size and power, accidents involving big rigs and trailers can be very catastrophic. The damage can be very costly, not just to the vehicles involved but also to the passengers and other people nearby. And it’s not just limited to injuries. It’s not uncommon that deaths may happen too.

Truck accidents can be life-altering experiences. The more devastating it is, the more it takes its toll on the lives affected by it.

So if you or your family or friends have been recently involved in a truck accident, you have the right to seek recourse from the courts for the purpose of obtaining compensation for damages. With the help of a Las Vegas truck accidents attorney, you can secure a favorable judgment and award of damages in your favor.

Truck Accidents in Las Vegas

Did you know there are thousands of people getting hurt or killed in truck accidents? The State of Nevada is no stranger to these catastrophic accidents as many trucks and trailers pass by its territory. Unfortunately Las Vegas too has its own fair share of the devastation.

One of the common causes of truck accidents is the driver’s error. Whether they risk it by driving under highly unsafe or unsecured conditions or simply fail to properly calculate their moves, these factors can result in absolute disaster.

Many truck drivers risk it by keeping on driving despite having little to no rest period. As a result, the fatigue takes its toll on their bodies. Failure to follow the mandated regular breaks or take the necessary precautions can cause the concerned drivers to overspeed or improperly load cargo.

A sleep-deprived or severely fatigued driver is also easily distracted. So does a driver who is driving under the influence. Under these conditions, the driver is not completely well-equipped to operate the humongous road machine safely.

But it’s not all the time that truck drivers are at fault. Other vehicles may also cause the accidents with the big rigs they share the road with. The catastrophe may be caused when other drivers change lanes abruptly, without giving the big trucks enough time and space to react accordingly. Improper merging, unsafe passing, or driving at the truck driver’s blind spot also increase the risk of truck accidents.

Even as small as a motorcycle hitting a big truck can trigger a chain of events, leading to a massive roadway accident. This can lead to multi-vehicle pile-ups.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Due to the massive size of these trucks, injuries tend to be severe. Paralysis, permanent disfigurement, and even death may result from these roadway disasters. Common injuries may include spine, neck, and head injuries. There’s also burns and deep lacerations, which leave permanent, visible scars.

If you or your loved one experienced this horrific event, you may be entitled to obtain compensation for damages from the erring party. Seek legal representation from a highly experienced Las Vegas truck accidents attorney.

Need a Las Vegas truck accidents attorney? Contact Dan Lovell of the Empire Law Group.

The post Have You Been Injured in a Truck Accident? appeared first on Empire Law Group, Las Vegas car accident attorney Dan J. Lovell.