Semi-Truck Accidents
Our Michigan truck accident lawyers often represent victims of truck accidents that involve semi-trucks. Due to the size and weight of these trucks, it is necessary that the truck drivers are highly trained and fit to operate the vehicle on the roadway. The injuries from this accidents are often very serious and even catastrophic.
Semi-trucks have large blind spots at the front, back and sides of the truck. When a car is in the blind spot, the driver cannot see it. If the truck tries to make a right or left turn, it would likely cause serious damage to any automobiles in its path.
There are many other dangers of Semi-Trucks. These include:
Squeeze Play – Semi Trucks need to swing wide to the left in order to negotiate a right turn. When truck drivers make wide right turns; they are often unable to see smaller vehicles directly behind or beside them. When a car cuts between the truck and a curb, the car can be caught in a squeeze, and a serious accident can occur.
Stopping Distance – Big rig trucks need a greater stopping distance than other cars and other vehicles. If there is not enough stopping distance between an automobile and a large truck, the car risks being involved in a rear-end collision.
“Off-track” – Occurs when a truck turns at high speed and swings into an adjacent lane unexpectedly. Unlike passenger vehicles, transport trucks require up to 40 percent more space to stop. Following too closely results in inadequate stopping distance between large trucks which then rear-end vehicles in front. It is not difficult to imagine the devastating results that occur when a car, van or SUV is hit from behind with over 10,000 lbs. of moving metal.
The most common causes of Semi Truck accidents are:
Driver Fatigue-sleepy or tired driver; driving too long and too many hours without rest.
Inadequate driver training
Overloaded trucks and improperly loaded trucks
Poorly maintained truck brakes
Speeding
Running off the road
Failure to yield the right of way
Aggressive driving behavior
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Reckless driving
Defective safety systems, reflectors, lights and other warning devices
Victims of Michigan semi-truck accidents do have legal rights to recover for their injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. For more information on these rights, request our Michigan car accident book which has been called “the best book ever written for Michigan consumers involved in car accidents.”
You can also call us at (800) 606-1717 to speak with one of our experienced Michigan truck accident lawyers. We do not charge any legal fees unless we obtain a recovery or settlement for you.
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