Trucks are immense vehicles that, if not driven safely, can be very dangerous. Truck accidents can happen in the event of negligent driving or even poor weather. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), winds that are greater than 25 miles per hour can affect a truck driver’s ability to navigate the vehicle on the road. Due to a truck’s large surface area, wind resistance can build up on one side and cause the vehicle to tip over. That is why it is important for truck drivers to be aware of the risks their vehicle presents, as it can help them avoid an accident. Continue reading below to learn more.
What are Causes of Wind-Related Truck Accidents?
Strong winds can increase the odds of a truck accident taking place on the road. This may be the case in the event of the following:
- High crosswinds: A strong gust of wind can cause a truck to sway or tip on the road.
- Improperly loaded cargo: Cargo that is not loaded correctly can shift and unevenly distribute the weight in the truck, making the vehicle difficult to control in high winds.
- Failure to take appropriate action for weather conditions: Truck drivers are required to regularly check the weather so they know what safety precautions to implement on the road. This can include slowing to a safe speed, pulling over until conditions improve, planning an alternative route, etc.
What Types of Accidents are Caused by Strong Winds?
There are several ways a truck accident can happen when there are strong winds. This can include:
- Rollover accidents: Wind can cause a driver to lose control and roll the vehicle over on its side.
- Underride accidents: Truck drivers who step on the brakes after being hit by wind can cause a closely following vehicle to crash and slide underneath the truck.
- Jackknife accidents: When a driver hits the brakes too hard, the truck can fold in on itself and form a 90-degree angle.
- Lost load accidents: Improperly loaded cargo can come loose and fall out of the truck onto the road.
What do I do if I’m Injured in a Truck Accident?
When a truck accident happens, it can cause significant injuries as a result. It is because of this that victims of these accidents often pursue legal action in order to recover compensation for the damages incurred. To do so, they must file a personal injury claim in which they are required to prove negligence took place, thus directly causing their injuries. Evidence that can be helpful to back up this claim can include medical documentation of the injuries, pictures or video of the scene, witness testimonies, etc.
Contact our Firm
If you or someone you know has been wrongly injured, you must not wait. Our firm is ready to help you through each step of the legal process to help ensure you recover the financial compensation you need to move on with your life. We are ready to help–all you have to do is contact Brock & Goetzmann, PLLC today.
