Between 2015 and 2016, the number of large trucks that became involved in fatal crashes grew by around 3 percent. Interestingly, commercial vehicles used for transportation of passengers, like buses, saw a decrease of 14 percent in the same time frame.
There are many reasons why trucks might be involved in more crashes today than in the past. More trucks on the road could be one reason, and heavier travel is another. Thanks to an improving economy, it’s common to see a greater number of trucks transporting goods on the highways.
As someone who has been involved in a truck accident,there are a few things you should ask. First, you need to ask if the driver has a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). If not, then he or she should be held liable for the collision and could face other criminal and civil penalties.
Another thing to ask is about the driver’s logs. You want to find out if the driver was taking enough breaks and getting enough to eat to be safe behind the wheel. Falsified logs and logs that show a driver pushing him or herself to the limit is good evidence that can help you pursue a claim to the fullest possible extent.
Truck collisions are normally devastating due to the size of the vehicles and the potential for hazardous materials on board. Passenger vehicles are so much smaller that crushing and serious injuries are common. If you’re hurt, remember that you can pursue a claim through the driver’s insurance and get the money needed while you recover.
Source: Sheffy, Mazzaccaro, DePaolo & DeNigris, “Helping Survivors And Families Heal And Recover,” accessed June 14, 2018
