The May Firm: What Are the Types of Truck Accidents They handle in California?

Semis, flatbeds, and 18-wheelers are a common sight on roadways. These vehicles carry large cargo loads, and they play a vital role in the economic prosperity of the United States. Truck drivers must pass a specialized test to receive a license, but that isn't always enough to prevent accidents. Even the most skilled driver could lose control of their vehicle.

Truck accidents are usually more severe than those involving passenger cars. Injuries are common. Victims may suffer from whiplash, broken bones, lacerations, internal bleeding, or brain damage. Fatalities are also more likely if a smaller vehicle gets hit by a large truck. These are the most common types of truck accidents that happen on California roads and highways:

Tire Blowouts

Tire fragments are a familiar sight on the road. Many times, these pieces are the remnants of a blowout. Tire blowouts can happen for several reasons. A pothole or street debris could damage the wall of the tire. Sometimes, worn tread or existing punctures might weaken the tire's structure. Regardless of the reason, a blowout can be dangerous. It could cause the truck to swerve into an adjacent lane. Pieces of the broken tire could even hit oncoming traffic and cause life-threatening injuries.

Jackknifing

Large trucks cannot maneuver as quickly as passenger vehicles. If a driver makes a sudden, sharp turn, it could force the cab to fold into a V-shape against the trailer. This position is called a jackknife. Brake failure, locked wheels, and poor weather conditions are some of the most common reasons for jackknifing to occur. As the driver loses control of their truck, they may collide with nearby cars and injure innocent victims.

Hazmat Accidents

Trucks transport a variety of hazardous materials, including gasoline, biological substances, and radioactive chemicals. Tanker trucks are designed to transport these liquids safely, but accidents still happen. Depending on the cargo, a collision could cause the tanker to go up in flames. Even if the load isn't flammable, it could be dangerous to inhale. Common hazmat accident injuries include burns, respiratory distress, and even death.

Rollover Accidents

Semis and 18-wheelers have a higher center of gravity than smaller vehicles. If this center of gravity suddenly changes, the truck could end up rolling onto one side. As the 18-wheeler topples over, it may hit passing vehicles. Although improper cargo loading is responsible for many rollover accidents, speeding, slippery roads, and driver error may also be to blame.

Runaway Trucks

Passenger car drivers don't give downhill roads a second thought. However, it's more difficult to maneuver a large truck down steep inclines. Semis gain speed as they descend, and if the driver isn't careful, they may lose control and crash. This scenario is known as a runaway truck accident, and they are most common in the mountains. Some roads even have runaway truck ramps to help drivers safely come to a stop. If a ramp isn't available, the truck might collide with other cars in its way.

Legal Help After a Truck Accident

Driving an 18-wheeler, delivery truck, tanker, or flatbed requires training, experience, and skill. All truck drivers are responsible for maintaining control of their vehicles at all times. If they don't, they may inadvertently cause a wreck. Anyone who suffered injuries due to a negligent truck driver should contact an accident and injury lawyer to discuss their rights.