What Are the Most Common Types of Tractor-Trailer Truck Accidents?
Tractor-trailers, also known as big rigs or semis, are a common sight on highways and roads across the country. While these vehicles are essential for transporting goods and supplies, they can also be involved in serious accidents that result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
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13 million trucks operate in the U.S. according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Of this figure approximately 3 million are tractor-trailers. The typical size of a tractor trailer varies depending on the number of axles and the length of the trailer. In the United States, the maximum length of a trailer is 53 feet, although shorter trailers are also common. The height of a trailer is typically around 13 feet, while the width can range from 8.5 to 9.5 feet. Tractor trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, including the weight of the truck, trailer, and cargo.
The loads carried by tractor trailers can vary widely depending on the type of goods being transported. Some common types of cargo include consumer goods, construction materials, food and beverage products, and hazardous materials. The weight and size of the load must be carefully balanced and secured to ensure safe transportation, and drivers are required to follow strict regulations regarding load limits and safety precautions.
In this article, we will explore the most common types of tractor-trailer accidents.
Jackknife Accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when the trailer of a tractor-trailer swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the tractor. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as sudden braking or turning. Jackknife accidents are dangerous and often result in collisions with other vehicles on the road.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents occur when a tractor-trailer rolls onto its side or roof. The causes can be many. Some common examples are speeding or sudden swerving. Rollover accidents can can result in serious injuries or fatalities to the driver and passengers.
Underride Accidents
Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of a tractor-trailer and becomes wedged underneath the trailer. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as sudden braking or turning. Underride accidents can be extremely dangerous, as the smaller vehicle may be crushed or dragged along the road.
Override Accidents
Override accidents occur when a tractor-trailer collides with a smaller vehicle from behind and rides over the top of the vehicle. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as sudden braking or following too closely. Override accidents can also result in the smaller vehicle may be crushed or dragged along the road.
Wide Turn Accidents
Wide turn accidents occur when a tractor-trailer makes a wide turn and collides with a vehicle in an adjacent lane. These accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as poor visibility or misjudging the turn radius.
Brake Failure Accidents
Brake failure accidents occur when the brakes on a tractor-trailer don’t function correctly, causing the vehicle to collide with other vehicles or objects on the road. Brake failure can be caused by a variety of factors, such as worn brake pads or faulty brake lines. I this scary scenario the driver may be unable to slow or stop the vehicle.
Tire Blowout Accidents
Tire blowout accidents occur when a tire on a tractor-trailer blows out, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Tire blowouts can be caused by a variety of factors, such as overloading the vehicle or failing to maintain the tires. In a tire blowout accident the driver may be unable to steer the vehicle or avoid a collision.
Lost Load Accidents
Lost load accidents occur when cargo falls off a tractor-trailer and collides with other vehicles or objects on the road. Lost load accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, such as improperly secured cargo or overloading the vehicle. Severed injuries have been caused by these type of incidents, which can be magnified when the cargo is heavy or hazardous.
Tractor-trailer accidents can be devastating, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights and options. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
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If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer truck accident, it's important to speak with an experienced Tractor-Trailer Truck Accident Attorney to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.
Since 1984, Montlick Injury Attorneys has been helping injured people get the compensation they deserve after an accident. We are a Top-Rated Law Firm recognized for professional skills, expertise, ethics and integrity by the legal profession. Call Us today 24/7 for your Free, No-Obligation Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333), or simply dial #WIN from your cell phone (#946). You can also visit us online at Montlick.com and use our Free 24/7 Live Chat.
