Tractor-Trailer Accidents

A tractor-trailer is a combination of a trucking unit that consists of a truck connected to a trailer. These are also called semitrailers, semi trucks, tractor-trailer rigs, 18 wheelers, big rigs and by other names. The smaller front cab serves as a combination engine and driver station, in which there may be a berth for the driver to sleep or rest while parked at a rest area. Tractor trailers may weigh 70,000 to 80,000 lbs. fully loaded with cargo. The purpose of the tractor-trailer is to transport cargo from one destination to another.

Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Tractor-trailer accidents may have a variety of causes. Causes are listed in an estimated order:

1. Driver fatigue – results from the driver being too tired to drive properly; he or she may fall asleep at the wheel, causing serious accidents, injuries or even death
2. Speeding – drivers who disobey the speed limits often find their vehicles out of control, or unable to take a turn, or unable to maintain balance, thereby flipping on its side
3. Excessive loads – trucks that are overloaded create great risks of tire and brake failure
4. Excessive loads – excessive loads may cause a high center of gravity and the tendency for the vehicle to flip on its side
5. Drinking and driving – causes great destruction, injury, property damage and death
6. Taking drugs and driving – the driver cannot maintain control of the vehicle while in a drug-induced state
7. Improper training, improperly qualified drivers – drivers may not have commercial licenses or any training whatsoever
8. Distracted driving – any behavior which takes the attention of the driver off the task of driving. For example, texting and driving, talking on a cellphone and driving, eating and driving, reaching and driving, etc.
9. Driver error – driver miscalculates the turn, the speed, the incline or any number of miscalculations that result in an accident
10. Overturned vehicle due to improperly loaded cargo. The cargo shifts around the truck, causing the truck to fall on its side or to jackknife. This is also caused by improperly secured cargo

Tractor-Trailer Accidents with Other Tractor-Trailers

It is not uncommon for two or more tractor-trailers to get into an accident with each other, causing damage, injuries and even death. These large trucks are often unable to stop in time due to icy roads, weather conditions, faulty brakes and/or tires and other faulty equipment. One large truck may try to pass the next, resulting in a miscalculation and a crash, with possible injuries or death.

Complimentary Consultation with Tractor-Trailer Accident Attorney Paul VanDerwerken – No Legal Fees Unless Your Case is Settled or Won

If you were involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer and you believe the large truck was at fault, it is advisable to obtain a legal consultation to discuss the preservation of your rights to compensation. If you were injured in a tractor-trailer crash, you may seek compensation for medical treatment, future medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, property damage and more. Attorney Paul VanDerwerken has negotiated more than 2000 car accident settlements with insurance companies and has taken more than 125 cases to court for successful judgments. To schedule your complimentary consultation, contact Attorney Paul VanDerwerken at 702-385-5050.