When driving a small vehicle on the road, it is common to feel fearful or even intimidated when alongside a semi-truck or large commercial 18-wheeler. Whether on a highway, a busy thoroughfare, or a crowded city street, collisions involving trucks or semi-trailers frequently result in devastating consequences.
Although truck drivers are considered professionals—required to pass various exams and hold specific certifications demonstrating their competence—mistakes can still happen. Unfortunately, what might be viewed as a simple error often has fatal consequences for pedestrians, passenger vehicle drivers, and other car occupants.
Types of crashes and consequences
There are several common types of truck accidents that can result in severe injuries, such as:
- Material spills
- Tire blowouts
- Jackknife accidents
- Wide turns
- Rollovers
- Underride crashes (where a car becomes trapped underneath the truck)
In addition to these risks, issues related to cargo handling and maintenance can also lead to various types of accidents. In addition to the driver, the warehouse or distribution center must ensure that the cargo is properly stowed. Failure to do so can make the vehicle unstable or lead to spills.
Some examples of poor loading practices include:
- Unsecured loads
- Unbalanced loads
- Overloaded trailers
Unfortunately, even a seemingly minor, low-speed collision between a car and a semi-truck can have severe consequences. Occupants of smaller vehicles could suffer:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Crush injuries
- Amputation
In some instances, the accident can result in the death of pedestrians or other vehicle occupants. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a collision with a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, acting quickly is essential. From obtaining evidence to accessing driving records and maintenance schedules, an experienced professional can provide the guidance you need.
