Five Facts You May Not Know About Truck Accidents
Trucks are extremely large and this automatically makes them an added risk to other drivers and passengers on the road. Truck drivers are often encouraged to work very long hours, meaning when they operate their vehicle, they do not always have the attention and focus necessary to do so safely. Trucking companies may also violate the law in an attempt to make more profit, even if it places others at risk of sustaining a serious injury. If you have been hurt, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer outlines five important facts you need to know below.
There are Many Laws that Govern the Trucking Industry
Federal and state law both govern the trucking industry in Texas. Trucking companies must ensure they are properly inspecting and maintaining their vehicles. They must also ensure they are hiring competent and experienced drivers. Truck drivers are subject to the same driving laws as any other motorist. They must also work for only 11 hours at a time before taking a 10-hour rest break. Many truckers and trucking companies violate these laws, which can easily cause an accident.
Truck Drivers Know How to Avoid Liability
Trucking companies sometimes engage in the deceptive act of training their drivers how to avoid liability after an accident. They may train them to trick you into admitting fault for the crash, or how to hide important evidence that can be used against them. You need someone just as aggressive on your side who will ensure they do not get away with these tactics and that you are treated fairly.
Truck Driver Negligence is a Main Cause of Accidents
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), one of the main causes of truck accidents is truck driver negligence. Speeding, failing to yield, failure to check blind spots, and lane drifting are just a few ways in which truck drivers can cause an accident. A lawyer will know how to investigate your crash and collect evidence that proves you were not at fault.
Young Truck Drivers are More Likely to Cause a Crash
Young drivers are always more likely to cause a crash, regardless of the vehicle they are driving. They are not as experienced as older drivers, and do not have the skill to respond to emergency situations appropriately. The same holds true for truck drivers. In fact, when a truck driver is under the age of 21 years old, they are more likely to be involved in fatal and non-fatal truck accidents.
Texas Leads the Nation in Truck Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Texas has more truck accidents than any other state. Texas also leads the way in fatal truck accidents, as well as the number of serious injuries sustained in truck accidents.
Our Truck Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Help After a Crash
If you have been injured in a crash, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer at the Law Office of Israel Garcia can help you obtain the full and fair settlement you deserve. Call us today at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hours-service/summary-hours-service-regulations
crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813286.pdf
