Large truck accidents occur for many reasons. These accidents involve semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, tank trucks, and other commercial motor vehicles. A common cause of truck accidents in Bismarck is negligence. Our Bismarck personal injury attorneys discuss common causes of truck accidents and how you can protect your rights after a truck accident in Bismarck.
What Causes Truck Accidents in Bismarck, ND?
Numerous factors can contribute to the cause of a truck accident. One of the most common causes of large truck crashes is driver negligence. Examples of driver negligence include:
- Driver fatigue and drowsiness. Federal law limits the hours of service for truck drivers to reduce the risk of fatigued driving truck accidents.
- Speeding and reckless driving. It takes longer for a large truck to stop than for smaller vehicles. Speeding can also increase the risk of rollover accidents and jackknife accidents.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Truck drivers are subject to random screening tests to reduce the risk of DUI truck accidents.
- Failing to check blind spots. Large trucks have huge blind spots. Truck drivers must carefully check for blind spots when changing lanes or turning. Drivers can reduce the risk of blind spot accidents by avoiding driving in a truck’s blind spots.
- Distracted driving is another common cause of truck accidents. Examples include using cell phones, GPS, and other electronic devices while driving. Eating, changing clothes, and adjusting truck controls can also cause a truck crash.
- Other motorists may contribute to or cause a truck crash due to negligence. Drivers can avoid truck crashes by paying attention to large trucks, including giving trucks plenty of room when merging or changing lanes.
Driver negligence is only one factor in truck accidents. Other factors may contribute to or cause a truck accident, including, but not limited to:
Equipment Malfunctions and Defective Truck Parts
Trucking companies and truck drivers should inspect trucks and trailers to make necessary repairs immediately to reduce the risk of accidents. The same is true if they receive a notice of a defective truck part. If a defective truck part causes a crash, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
Road Conditions
Defectively designed and poorly maintained roads may contribute to a truck accident. For example, potholes can cause a truck tire to blow out, resulting in a crash. In some cases, a government entity or other party could share liability for a truck accident.
How Can I Protect My Rights After a Truck Accident in Bismarck, ND?
Commercial truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries and devastating property damage. The priority after a truck accident is your health. Seek immediate medical treatment. In most cases, accident victims are taken to area hospitals by ambulance.
The trucking company and its insurance provider immediately assign teams to investigate the truck crash. The goal is to limit liability for the crash if possible. Law enforcement and government agencies may also conduct extensive investigations.
It is in your best interest to seek immediate representation by an experienced truck accident attorney. Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, significant damages, and liability disputes. An attorney has the resources to hire experts to assist with the investigation. They also understand the laws governing the trucking industry and how those laws impact a personal injury claim.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Bismarck Personal Injury Attorneys
Truck accident claims are complicated personal injury cases. Our Bismarck personal injury attorneys at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., have extensive experience handling these types of cases. Call us to schedule a meeting with an attorney to discuss your legal options for compensation after a truck accident.
