Truck accidents have a higher chance of resulting in catastrophic injuries than car accidents. Many accident victims suffer life-threatening injuries like head injuries, spinal injuries, broken bones, and much more. Due to their size and weight, victims do not have much protection if they are suddenly struck by a commercial truck. A truck accident lawyer in Houston, TX like one from John K. Zaid & Associates can provide you urgent legal assistance if you want to file a claim against the negligent driver who caused your injury. They are familiar with handling many types of claims, such as ones involving some of the most common truck accident scenarios described below.
Speeding
While no one can prevent or predict poor weather conditions like rain or snow, drivers are responsible for judging their environment and adjusting how they drive. If a truck driver was driving faster than the legally posted speed limit during extreme weather conditions, they can be held liable because they did not take the proper cautions and drive in a safe manner.
DUI
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a common violation among truck drivers. This is especially dangerous because a truck driver is operating such a large vehicle that is already difficult to control. A truck accident lawyer will gather the necessary evidence to build a case against a truck driver who was under the influence.
Tiredness or Fatigue
Because they drive long distances and must reach their destination on time, truck drivers are prone to fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel. They are not incentivized to take periodic rests because they must deliver their cargo on time. However, this can cause devastating accidents. Drivers are still responsible for ensuring that they are alert and rested while operating a truck.
Unsafe Cargo
Truck drivers must transport many different types of cargo to their destinations, such as products, produce, livestock, and hazardous chemicals like flammable materials. If they are not secured properly, their cargo can spill on the road, blocking lanes and resulting in a devastating accident. If a driver is found to not have secured their cargo according to the established procedures and regulations, they can be held liable for an accident.
Mechanical Failure
Defective parts or trucks that are not maintained properly is another common problem at the center of many truck accidents. The trucking company or truck parts manufacturer could be held liable if they did not adequately maintain a truck so that it is road-safe or if a faulty part was produced.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, request a consultation from a seasoned lawyer now.