The Dangers of Semi-Truck Accidents

 Posted on September 13,2018 in Truck Accidents

A recent tragedy in the Chicago area reminded us of the constant dangers semi-truck drivers face every time they start a shift. On Tuesday, September 11th, a semi-truck crashed into a Lansing apartment building, injuring themselves and one resident. The accident occurred prior to 8:00 a.m. on Torrence Avenue, south of 184th Street. While the truck driver was not fatally injured in the accident, his injuries did require hospitalization.

The accident was the latest in a long line of semi-truck accidents. In 2016 alone, over 4,400 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal accidents throughout the United States. If you or a family member are involved in a motor vehicle collision, it is paramount to speak with a legal professional.

Semi-Truck Crashes Rising Nationwide

Despite mandated testing that all drivers must pass before operating a semi-truck, accidents involving semi-trucks continue to rise. According to the Department of Transportation, semi-truck fatalities have risen 29% since 2005. In 2016, the Department of Transportation found that there was a nearly 2% increase in semi-truck fatalities, in comparison to 2015.

Also noted in the Department of Transportation’s study was a 29% increase in injuries involving semi-trucks and buses. In 2016 alone, there were approximately 119,000 Americans injured in semi-truck and bus accidents. The more than 4,000 semi-truck and bus-related fatalities in 2016 showcase the risk that every driver faces when these larger vehicles are present.

Why Semi-Trucks Face Increased Risk

Semi-truck drivers are only allowed to operate their vehicles after receiving their Commercial Driver’s License - and for good reason. The sheer mass of semi-trucks can result in a great deal of damage to other vehicles in a collision. Due to the size of semi-trucks (many semi-trucks weigh over 25,000 pounds), the drivers are faced with increased challenges when braking and steering. If a semi-truck is traveling at excessive speeds, it can be difficult to effectively utilize braking systems, and quickly changing directions hazardous.

Set Up a Free a Consultation With a Lake County Personal Injury Lawyer

At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our legal team fully understands the tragedy of a vehicular collision. When a family member is injured in an automobile accident, the whole family is impacted. If you and your family face the difficulties that come with a motor vehicle accident, it is important to find a legal team that you can trust. To schedule a free consultation with a Waukegan personal injury attorney, call us today at 847-662-3303.

Sources:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/safety/data-and-statistics/398686/ltbcf-2016-final-508c-may-2018.pdf

https://abc7chicago.com/driver-resident-injured-after-semi-truck-crashes-into-lansing-apartment-building/4210464/