While driving on any U.S. highway, you may not be surprised to see an 18-wheeler truck cruising along. The trucking industry is integral to the U.S. economy as trucks travel across the country transporting important goods. However, as vital as they are to our economy 18-wheeler trucks pose a serious threat to the safety of those on the road as a result of their enormous size and weight. Often, 18-wheeler accidents are the result of driver error and negligence. As a result of their massive size, 18-wheeler accidents are particularly dangerous and victims typically suffer catastrophic and life-altering injuries. It is imperative for truck drivers to safely and properly operate an 18-wheeler truck to prevent serious accidents and injuries. Keep reading to learn more about 18-wheeler truck accidents and how a skilled Washington, D.C. Truck Accident Lawyer can help you navigate your legal options.
What are the most common causes of 18-wheeler truck accidents?
Unfortunately, there are several reasons that 18-wheeler accidents occur. However, they are most commonly caused when truck drivers violate certain safety regulations they are legally required to abide by. In the trucking industry, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces specific safety regulations through its Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) program. It has been proven that 18-wheeler truck accidents are more likely to occur when a truck driver does not comply with the CSA’s safety regulations. The following are the most common truck safety violations:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Improper turns
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Improper railroad grade crossing
- Failure to obey a traffic control device
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failure to secure the vehicle’s cargo properly
Many of these violations are also violations of the District of Columbia’s traffic laws. With that being said, truck drivers must exercise reasonable care on the road and abide by the rules of the road to prevent serious accidents and injuries.
What should I do if I sustain an injury?
If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler truck accident, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. It is imperative to note that the steps you take after an accident could make or break your case against a negligent party. If possible, after seeking medical treatment you should try to collect pertinent evidence from the scene of the accident. In addition, you should try to gather any witnesses’ contact information as they can corroborate your claim later on if you decide to pursue legal action.
Most importantly, if you are injured as a direct result of another party’s negligence, it is in your best interest to retain the legal services of a determined Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyer. Our firm is committed to helping our clients get the justice they deserve.
