Truck accident can be more complex than most other types of accident cases due to several factors, such as:
Truck accident cases rarely involve just two drivers. They often involve trucking companies, truck operators, truck parts manufacturers, and even government entities others responsible for maintaining roads. Careful examination of each party’s role is necessary to determine who is liable for an accident.
Trucks are massive, which means they can cause severe injuries and significant damage when compared to car accidents. This raises the stakes for the involved parties, often leading to more extensive truck accident claims and more vigorous defense from insurance companies working hard to minimize payouts.
Truck drivers and trucking companies must adhere to strict regulations, such as limits on driving hours and mandatory maintenance checks. Proof of non-compliance can make all the difference in truck accident cases but requires extensive knowledge of these regulations and often the expertise of specialists to interpret evidence.
Evidence in truck accident cases is complex. Black box data, maintenance records, driver’s logs, and witness statements are sometimes necessary to prove liability and seek compensation. Lawyers have to act quickly to gather evidence before it gets lost or corrupted, and companies are rarely forthcoming with information.
Truck drivers often have multiple insurance policies from different insurers to cover the driver, the vehicle, and the cargo. Truck accident attorneys analyze these policies carefully to identify liable parties and insurance coverage, which requires skill and can significantly prolong legal proceedings.
Renton has an extensive network of roads and highways. Per local officials, there are 319 centerline miles and 753 lane miles throughout the city. Significant local and commercial traffic speeds through the area every day, especially across major highways like I-405, SR 167, and SR 169. As a result, Renton is particularly vulnerable to truck accidents.
In 2021, Washington saw 674 total traffic fatalities, 96 (14.2 percent) of which involved heavy trucks. Statewide traffic fatalities increased to 743 the following year, though the number involving heavy trucks decreased slightly to 90 (12.1 percent). These percentages are striking given that, according to the American Trucking Associations, commercial vehicles account for just five percent of all registered vehicles in the U.S.
Alcohol or drug impairment is a dangerous risk factor for drivers, especially those behind the wheels of large commercial trucks. Intoxicants severely impair drivers’ abilities to operate safely. The effects are even more hazardous for truck drivers, who operate large, heavy vehicles that can cause tremendous damage. Truckers who are drunk or high have slower reaction times and poor judgment, which can contribute to catastrophic accidents.
A lack of proper driver training is a major cause of truck accidents. Truck drivers need skills that are very different from regular driving, and solid training is key to preparing them for what they’ll face on the road, like handling heavy loads or dealing with emergencies. Without thorough training, drivers may be unprepared for the challenges of safely operating such large vehicles.
Potholes, uneven surfaces, and missing signage can make truck accidents more likely. Trucks are especially vulnerable to things like tire damage or suspension issues on poorly maintained roads. Sudden road hazards can also cause drivers to lose control, especially at higher speeds or during bad weather.
Driver fatigue is a major factor in many truck accidents. Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, which can easily lead to exhaustion. Even with regulations in place that require rest breaks and limit driving hours, the pressure to meet tight deadlines can push drivers to keep going. Fatigue slows reaction times, affects decision-making, and reduces overall driving performance, all of which raise the risk of serious accidents.
How cargo is loaded onto a truck has a big impact on its stability and handling. If the weight is unbalanced or the cargo isn’t properly secured, it can lead to the truck tipping or rolling over, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops. Unsecured cargo can also spill onto the road in an accident, hitting other vehicles or causing additional crashes.
Many drivers push past speed limits or drive too fast for the conditions, but for truck drivers, this behavior is even more dangerous. Driving at excessive speeds or using aggressive techniques makes it harder for truckers to stop quickly or maneuver safely and increases the chances of serious accidents.
Vehicle defects can be a major cause of serious truck accidents. These defects might result from manufacturing mistakes, design flaws, or not meeting safety standards. Common issues include faulty steering or fuel systems that can lead to fires or a loss of control. Truck manufacturers are required to follow strict safety guidelines, and trucking companies need to perform thorough inspections to catch and fix any problems before they lead to an accident.
Uncovering the cause of the truck accident is just the first step—our attorneys will strategically use that information in securing the maximum
The severity of truck accident injuries can be life-altering, and an experienced truck accident attorney will know how to demonstrate their full impact—both physically and financially—to seek the maximum compensation for your short and long-term needs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Renton or the surrounding areas, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you contact an experienced truck accident attorney, the better your chances of securing a fair settlement or verdict.
Freeman Law Firm, Inc. offers free initial consultations to help you understand your rights and options. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe any attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
We are proud to represent victims of truck accidents in Renton, and we stand ready to help you, too. Call our Renton office today at (253) 383-4500 or use our contact form for a free, no obligation consultation to get started.
