5 Common Types of Semi-truck Accidents

All automobile accidents have dangerous consequences, but those involving commercial vehicles like semi-trucks lead to more disastrous results. Although cars are more prevalent on the road, the size and weight of semi-trucks can result in more severe injuries in case of collisions.

Besides that, loaded cargo and maneuverability challenges increase the risks of truck accidents. These factors also lead to crashes unique to these commercial vehicles. Here are some of them:

• Jackknife Accidents
  A jackknife accident involves a semi truck’s trailer folding in on itself like a pocket knife. It usually occurs due to loss of control or excessive breaking, especially during inclement weather. When a semi-truck jackknifes, the trailer skids along the road, which may cause it to hit other vehicles or have them crash into it.

• Rear-End Collisions
  Due to their size, semi-trucks are slow and hard to maneuver, requiring more time to slow down or come to a safe stop than standard cars. Failure to stop in time may cause rear-end collisions with smaller vehicles or even trucks of the same size.

• Head-On Collisions
  This type of accident happens when a semi-truck crashes into another oncoming vehicle. Because of the vehicle’s size and impact, this collision may lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Head-on crashes may be caused by various reasons, including defective brakes or a fatigued or negligent driver.

• Wide Turn Crashes
  Semi-trucks, being large vehicles, require a wider turning radius. It also means they’ll need particular caution during right-hand turns, which tend to be more difficult. Sometimes, drivers would slightly veer to the left first before turning right, which may confuse motorists and cause a collision.

• Rollover Accidents
  This happens when a semi-truck rolls onto its side or completely flips over. Rollover accidents may occur when a truck swerves abruptly, encounters adverse road conditions, or because of a weight shift caused by improperly loaded cargo.

Get Help From an Auto Accident Lawyer
No matter the type of semi-truck accident, being involved in one can lead to severe injuries, property damage, and other significant losses. Our personal injury attorneys at Fitch & Stahle Law Office in IA and NE are experienced in handling these cases. Contact us to learn how to file a truck accident claim or about our legal services.