Truckers are required to maintain a commercial driver’s license, abide by strict federal trucking laws, and obey the rules of the road. Truck drivers are held to standards for good cause. Semi-trucks and other large commercial trucks have the capacity to cause serious and fatal injuries to other motorists. truck accident

Despite laws and regulations designed to reduce the incidence of trucking accidents, such accidents are still far too common.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

A trucking accident is often caused by truck driver error, including:

  • Truck driver fatigue
  • Failure to properly secure loads
  • Failure to check brakes, tires, and lights
  • Weight violations
  • Failure to maintain a safe distance
  • Unsafe driving in adverse weather conditions
  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident and you require legal representation, contact Pracht Injury Lawyers in Anderson, South Carolina.

Trucking Accident Statistics

In general, truckers are the most experienced and safest drivers on the road. According to a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) report, the driver of a passenger vehicle is more than three times more likely to be responsible for a crash than the driver of a large truck. Large trucks are involved in less than 4% of all motor vehicle crashes. However, driver error is responsible for one-fourth of all trucking accidents. And when a truck is involved in an accident, it is three times more likely to be fatal. Almost 80 % of those killed in crashes with large trucks were the people in the other vehicle. Over two-thirds of the trucks involved in crashes are semi-trucks.

Experience Matters With Personal Injury Cases

Trucking accident claims are distinct from car accident claims in a number of ways. To properly handle a trucking accident case, a personal injury attorney must have a thorough understanding of complex insurance coverage issues, trucking company policies, and commercial trucking laws.

Given the size and weight of large tractor-trailers, accidents involving such vehicles often cause serious or fatal injuries. You will need an attorney who knows how to properly manage complex personal injury claims to ensure the protection of your rights.

Located in Anderson, South Carolina, Pracht Injury Lawyers is ready to serve you. Contact us today. We've handled cases in Greenwood, Abbeville, Greenville, Seneca, Easley, Spartanburg, Clemson, Columbia, Aiken, Newberry, Laurens, Charleston, Orangeburg, and throughout South Carolina.