Truck Rollovers Can Lead to Devastating Injuries
Due to their size and height, trucks can easily roll over if they are incorrectly loaded, improperly maintained, or recklessly driven. A truck rollover accident is not only dangerous for the driver. It also puts pedestrians and other motorists in a dangerous situation and can lead to serious catastrophic injuries and even death. Attorneys Richard C. Bennett, William Johnson, and Andrew Johnson of Bennett Johnson, LLP, work with reconstruction experts to establish the cause of the rollover and determine liability. We offer free consultations at our practice locations in Napa and Oakland, CA. If you have been injured as a result of a negligent truck driver or other preventable cause, schedule a case evaluation today or call us at (510) 444-5020
Statistics Surrounding Truck Rollovers
According to a 2016 study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck rollovers were the most harmful event in five percent of all fatal crashes. The American International Group, Inc. also estimates that there are over 1,000 tanker rollovers and 500 large truck rollovers in the U.S. every year. Although rules and regulations for truck drivers are in place to prevent rollovers, accidents occur all too frequently.
Rollover accidents are especially dangerous because they put the driver, other vehicles, and bystanders in the path of the truck at risk of serious injury or even death.
What Causes These Incidents?
If you are involved in an accident with a truck that has rolled over, it is important to establish what circumstances led to the rollover. Oftentimes, the cause of the accident will directly point to the driver, which will identify who is responsible for paying damages resulting from the crash. Many negligent behaviors can lead to rollovers.
Improper Loading
If a shipper incorrectly loads the truck or if the driver fails to secure the load, the weight of the truck may be unevenly balanced and lead to a rollover when the cargo shifts. To avoid rollover accidents caused by improper loading, multiple parties are responsible for adhering to weight limits and ensuring that the load is secure.
Reckless or Distracted Driving
In many cases, the negligent actions of a truck driver directly cause rollover accidents. Examples of reckless, negligent behavior include:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Driving while fatigued
- Texting and driving
- Eating while driving
- Braking too quickly
- Accelerating too quickly
Improper Maintenance
Drivers and trucking companies are responsible for inspecting their trucks and ensuring that they are in a good working condition prior to each drive. Failure to detect defective brakes or overly worn tires, for example, can lead to a rollover crash.
Steering Issues
If the driver makes a sudden turn, the risk of a rollover accident is increased. Rollovers can also occur as a result of driver error or a malfunctioning steering mechanism.
The Consequences of a Rollover Accident
Rollover accidents are especially dangerous because they put the driver, other vehicles, and bystanders in the path of the truck at risk of serious injury or even death. Catastrophic injuries caused by rollover accidents such as spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injury can require lifelong care and rehabilitation. In the worst cases, the wrongful death of a passenger or bystander can result in unquantifiable pain and suffering.
Why You Need a Lawyer
Due to the nature of truck rollovers, it is essential to find a lawyer who can investigate the cause of the accident and determine the full extent of your injuries. Our attorneys work with investigators, reconstruction experts, and the authorities to determine what circumstances led to the rollover and establish who is liable. We also work with medical experts to reach an accurate diagnosis of your injuries to determine how they will affect you for the rest of your life.
Consult with Our Firm
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rollover truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation to cover current and future medical expenses, loss of wages, and pain and suffering. With the help of a compassionate lawyer from our firm, you can present a strong case that helps secure the maximum compensation possible. To discuss the details of your rollover accident, schedule an appointment online or call Bennett Johnson, LLP, at (510) 444-5020
