Baldwin Truck Accident Lawyer

Since large trucks are far heavier than normal cars, accidents involving these types of vehicles can be devastating for all parties involved. This is especially true when an accident occurs at high speed.

If you or a loved one was involved in a truck accident, you may be wondering who to hold responsible. Depending on your case, you may be able to hold the driver, trucking company, loading company, or truck manufacturer liable. In some cases, you may be able to hold multiple parties liable for your accident. A Baldwin truck accident lawyer can examine the facts of your case to determine your options. If you decide to bring a claim, an experienced injury attorney can advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process.

Causes of Truck Accidents

Accidents involving large trucks are fairly common, especially on major highways. Trucks are heavier and more difficult to drive, and for this reason, drivers must be specially trained and licensed to operate these vehicles. Still, even with proper training devastating accidents can occur. Common reasons these wrecks occur are:

• Driver fatigue
• Inadequate training
• Poor weather conditions
• Reckless driving
• Driving under the influence

A Baldwin attorney can thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding an accident to determine whether a trucker or trucking company’s negligence was a factor.

Trucker Fatigue in Baldwin

Fatigue is a serious problem among truckers, who are often encouraged by trucking companies to complete their routes as quickly as possible. The government requires all truck drivers to get a certain amount of rest, but often, more routes equate to more money. A great number of traffic accidents are caused by truckers who did not get enough sleep.

Fatigue results in thousands of accidents each year, some of which are deadly. According to federal trucking regulations, known as Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, govern:

• The number of hours a truck driver can log each week
• The amount of time that must be taken off between shifts
• The amount of time a driver can drive in a single trip
• The required length of breaks

It is not uncommon for truckers to neglect breaks so they can log more time and earn more money. Unrealistic scheduling can make things worse since drivers are forced to work more hours in a shorter period.

Jackknifing and Turning Accidents

The acceleration, visibility, braking, and turning of large trucks are limited compared to other types of vehicles. Under certain conditions, trucks are prone to jackknifing, which can occur during turning and braking.

Large trucks also have a difficult time turning. Right turns can be especially difficult, since large trucks may need to use two lanes to turn. No matter what the conditions are, it is illegal to use multiple lanes to turn, even if a person is driving a commercial vehicle. If a person is injured in a truck accident, they should consult a Baldwin truck accident lawyer who can help determine whether a trucker was negligent.

A Baldwin Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

If you were injured in a truck accident, it may be possible to collect compensation. You may be able to obtain compensation for your past, present, and future medical bills, lost wages, and living expenses as well as for intangible losses such as pain and suffering. Contact a Baldwin truck accident lawyer for additional information.