Were you in a collision with a truck?

Large truck accidents are on the rise in Louisiana and across the United States. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 4,136 people were killed in accidents involving large trucks in 2018, which is a 31% increase from 2009. Of those who died, 82% were occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists, pedestrians or bicyclists. Only 16% of those who died were occupants of the truck.

Typical causes of truck accidents

Commercial trucks are big and difficult to maneuver, so professional truck drivers must obtain a commercial driver’s license before they can work in the trucking industry. Despite this training, accidents still happen. Here are some of the most common causes of truck crashes:

• Truck driver fatigue
• Alcohol or drug impairment
• Inadequate training
• Speeding or reckless driving
• Distracted driving
• Poor vehicle maintenance

Common truck accident injuries

According to the federal government, large trucks are those that weigh between 10,000 pounds and 80,000 pounds. In comparison, passenger vehicles weigh an average of 5,000 pounds. When a large truck strikes a passenger vehicle, the occupants of the passenger vehicle can suffer catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common truck accident injuries include:

• Back, neck and spine injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal injuries
• Broken bones
• Cuts, abrasions and lacerations

Legal options for victims of truck accidents

Victims of motor vehicle accidents may find it helpful to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The attorney may assess the case, gather evidence supporting a claim and negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. If the insurer refuses to pay, the attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit in court.