Commercial truck accidents produce devastating results because the average rig weighs 80,000 lbs as compared to a car that might have a mass of about 4,000 lbs. The impact of the vehicles itself could kill either driver and passengers immediately. A multitude of circumstances defines the survival rate of all parties involved in the events. After a trucking accident happens, it is imperative that law enforcement and emergency services are contacted to come to the scene.
What Factors Contribute to a Big Rig Accident?
According to studies, the most common cause of an 18-wheeler accident is exhausted driving. The Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator have issued regulations to decrease the risk of accidents due to tired operators.
The FMCSA requires all drivers to take an eight-hour resting period after any 12 to 14-hour driving shift. The drivers must use an electronic log to track their driving hours and show irrefutable proof that they followed these regulations. Victims of a big rig accident get started on a legal claim by visiting Kenny Perez Law now.
Why Are the Accidents Investigated More Thoroughly?
There are far too many variables at play in these accidents, and the primary focus is to determine if the driver was in violation of federal laws. Once they’ve been cleared of any infractions, the rig is reviewed for unbalanced loads that should have been discovered at a weigh station. Next, the truck and rig are tested for mechanical or maintenance failures. During the investigation, the insurance carrier for the trucking company attempts to find any reason for the accident that pushes the liability away from the policyholder.
Traffic Camera Footage of the Accident
Either party with an attorney acting on their behalf could get video surveillance footage from the traffic cameras. The angle of the camera determines how much of the accident was captured. Unfortunately, some angles won’t show an accurate or full account of what happened. If there are any cars or buildings blocking the view, there aren’t any guarantees that the images show everything the court needs to see.
Who Owns the Truck?
The owner of the 18-wheeler is either a trucking company or an owner/operator. Both potential owners are required to purchase and maintain commercial auto insurance coverage. However, a trucking company may have more disposable income to make attempts to settle out of court.
A victim of a big rig accident must refrain from talking to anyone from the trucking company, their insurer, or their attorney. It’s critical for them to redirect all communications to their attorney. Many defendants make efforts to get the victim to accept a low-ball settlement if possible.
An 18-wheeler accident could have a variety of outcomes, and the weight and force of the truck introduce a greater probability of causing a fatality. When investigating the accident, it’s never a short process that identifies one party as liable, and there are alternative circumstances that contribute to the accidents.
Victims of the accident need an attorney to navigate them through a personal injury lawsuit. Many trucking companies and their insurers have hidden agendas and will attempt to get a victim to accept a settlement offer that is far lower than what they deserve. Injured parties that hire an attorney can avoid these issues and could get exactly what they are entitled to receive.
