Although truck accidents in Phoenix do not occur as often as car accidents, they tend to be more serious because of the size and weight of the vehicles involved. A truck weighing more than 10,000 pounds is considered a large truck according to law, and some can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, compared to the average car weight of 3,000 pounds. To complicate matters, many trucks carry large or hazardous loads that increase the chance of fatalities and injuries.
In 2010, over 500,000 trucks were involved in accidents that resulted in 100,000 injuries and over 3,000 deaths, according to research from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.
Causes of Truck Accidents
Fatigue is a common issue in accidents where the truck driver is at fault. Truck drivers often drive for long periods of time with little sleep. Even though truck drivers are expected to go off duty after 14 consecutive hours of driving, or 60 hours in a one-week period, many drive much longer and go for days without rest. There may also be other factors that lead to accidents, such as poor training and improper loading of cargo.
Any of these factors can cause a truck driver to make an error that can lead to an accident. These errors can include failure to yield, traffic violations, following too closely, intoxication, and reckless driving.
Commercial trucking companies are required to maintain their trucks and make sure the cargo is properly loaded. However, some trucks are not maintained properly and this can lead to equipment failure. When commercial trucking companies adhere to strict maintenance schedules, many accidents can be avoided. There are several components of the truck that can cause accidents if not properly checked and maintained, including brakes, wheels and tires, the fuel line, the chassis and the trailer hitch.
Truck Accident Injuries in Phoenix, AZ
Victims of truck accidents suffer from a wide variety of ailments, some of which can be long lasting or fatal. Serious injuries include brain injury, spinal injury, back injury and burns. Less serious injuries are more common, and include broken bones, cuts, bruises and lacerations. Although many of these injuries can be successfully treated, some victims may still be left paralyzed, unable to work, or impaired in other ways.
Phoenix, AZ Truck Injury Attorneys
Truck accidents are complicated and difficult to investigate, which is why truck accident victims should hire an experienced Phoenix, AZÂ trucking accident lawyer. With an accident lawyer in Phoenix, you can be sure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering that you deserve. If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident, contact our office at 1-800-THE-EAGLE or submit a short and simple case form today.
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