Commercial vehicle accidents are complex and often catastrophic due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Seeking the expertise of a commercial vehicle accident attorney is crucial.
This article explores different types of commercial vehicles and how they might be involved in accidents, providing a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and legal complexities.
Types of Commercial Vehicles and Accident Scenarios
- Semi-Trucks (18-Wheelers): Semi-trucks are among the most common commercial vehicles on the road. These massive trucks can cause severe accidents due to their size and weight. For instance, a jackknife accident, where the trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, can lead to multi-vehicle collisions. In 2021, a semi-truck jackknifed on a snowy interstate in Pennsylvania, causing a 50-vehicle pileup and multiple fatalities.
- Delivery Vans: With the rise of e-commerce, delivery vans are ubiquitous. These vehicles are often involved in rear-end collisions, especially in urban areas where they make frequent stops. A notable example occurred in 2020 when a delivery van in New York City failed to stop in time, causing a chain reaction that injured several pedestrians.
- Buses: Buses, whether for public transportation, school, or private charters, are large vehicles that can cause significant damage in accidents. In 2018, a school bus in New Jersey collided with a dump truck, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries among the students and teachers on board.
- Garbage Trucks: Garbage trucks operate in residential neighborhoods and often during early morning hours. Their frequent stops and large blind spots can lead to accidents. In 2019, a garbage truck in Los Angeles hit a parked car while reversing, causing serious injuries to the car’s occupant who was retrieving items from the trunk.
- Tow Trucks: Tow trucks are essential for roadside assistance but can be hazardous if not operated properly. In 2020, a tow truck in Florida was involved in an accident while pulling a disabled vehicle, causing a multi-car collision on the highway.
- Utility Trucks: Utility trucks are used for maintaining infrastructure like power lines and water pipes. These trucks often work on the sides of roads, increasing the risk of side-impact collisions. In 2021, a utility truck in Texas was struck by a car, resulting in severe injuries to the truck’s crew members who were working on roadside repairs.
- Fire Trucks: Fire trucks are large and often operate at high speeds in emergency situations, which can lead to accidents. In 2019, a fire truck in Chicago collided with a car while responding to a call, resulting in injuries to both the car’s occupants and firefighters.
- Cement Mixers: Cement mixers are heavy and have a high center of gravity, making them prone to rollovers. In 2018, a cement mixer in San Francisco rolled over on a sharp turn, crushing a nearby vehicle and causing fatal injuries to its driver.
- Refrigerated Trucks: Refrigerated trucks transport perishable goods and often have tight delivery schedules. Speeding or fatigued driving can result in accidents. In 2020, a refrigerated truck in Texas rear-ended a stopped vehicle at a traffic light, causing severe injuries to the vehicle’s occupants.
- Construction Vehicles: Construction vehicles, such as bulldozers and excavators, often operate in and around construction sites but can also be involved in road traffic. In 2019, an excavator fell off a flatbed truck in Michigan, causing a serious accident on the highway.
The Role of a Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident requires specialized legal expertise. A commercial vehicle accident attorney plays a crucial role in ensuring that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
Maximizing Compensation
An experienced attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. They will work with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability and determine the extent of damages.
Commercial vehicle accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the vehicle owner, and the company responsible for maintenance. A skilled attorney will navigate these complexities, negotiating with insurance companies and ensuring that all liable parties are held accountable.
Consider the case of a family injured in a collision with a delivery van. The attorney investigated and found that the driver was fatigued and had violated federal hours-of-service regulations. Additionally, the van’s brakes were poorly maintained. By building a strong case, the attorney secured a substantial settlement that covered medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Beyond physical injuries, commercial vehicle accidents can have profound emotional and psychological impacts. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. A compassionate attorney will ensure that these non-economic damages are also considered in the compensation claim.
Accidents involving commercial vehicles are often severe and complex, necessitating the expertise of a specialized attorney. Understanding the different types of commercial vehicles and their associated risks can help victims make informed decisions. Do not hesitate to seek the assistance of a qualified attorney who can navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.