You have probably heard all these terms when it comes to describing a semi-truck: big rigs, 18 wheelers, tractor trailers, etc. All these terms relate to one specific type of vehicle that is essential on our nation’s highways. Without these trucks, the infrastructure of our country would come to a halt. However, when an accident occurs involving one of these trucks, serious injuries or death are often the results. An accident involving a semi-truck can completely devastate someone’s life and the lives of their family. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, you should contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. The experienced Ohio lawyers at Chester Law will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights as an injured party are protected and that you get the full and fair compensation that you and your family deserve.
Truck accident statistics are not getting better. In fact, the number of fatalities due to semi-truck and commercial vehicle accidents rose in 2010. In 2009, 3,200 people died as a result of this type of accident. In 2010, the number was just over 5,000. These numbers, provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, show why tougher safety regulations are required. Until these safety regulations are in place, a truck accident lawyer is your best choice to fight the trucking companies and the insurance companies that represent them.
With over a half of a million large truck and commercial vehicle accidents in 2010 and 100,000 people seriously injured, the insurance companies are working quickly and diligently to ensure that they pay out the least amount possible in damages for each accident.
Three Major Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
#1-Human Error by the Truck Driver:
It is estimated that 90% of semi-truck accidents are due to human error. This means that only about 10% are due to mechanical failure, improper loads, tire failure or road hazards. Truckers will often drive many hours over the maximum 11 hours allowed by law.
Studies show that truckers begin to experience significant fatigue after 8 hours, which is often the cause of these horrific accidents. In trying to combat fatigue, some truckers take illegal drugs to stay awake. While the numbers of impaired semi-truck drivers are rather low, those who do take to the roads while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are literally “an accident waiting to happen.” An experienced truck accident law firm like Chester Law Group will work determinedly to ensure that those people and entities responsible for the accident are held accountable.
#2-Inexperience Truck Driver:
Inexperience is another major cause of semi-truck accidents. Some trucking companies only require a commercial driver’s license and two weeks experience behind the wheel to be hired. This lack of experience in operating an 80,000 pound tractor trailer is simply mind-boggling.
The consequences of hiring inexperienced drivers can be devastating. A competent and experienced law firm will examine all the evidence in your trucking case. This includes the driving record of the trucker, the maintenance files for the truck, the accident and police report, and the witness statements.
At Chester Law Group we have access to trucking industry experts who will determine the exact cause of the accident. Accident reconstructionists will be able to determine how the accident occurred. The insurance companies will have their own experts available and you can bet that they will not be sympathetic to you and your family. Legal representation by an experienced accident lawyers may be your only defense to insurance companies that want to bury your claim or settle your case too quickly for minimal amounts.
#3-Improper Inspection on the Truck:
Improper inspection of the truck before heading out on the road is yet another common cause of truck accidents. Truckers are required to perform inspections on the tractor and trailer before driving each day. If a proper inspection is not completed, then potential safety hazards may not be identified. The lack of proper inspection is often the result of pressure to get the load moving down the road and making a delivery on time.
At Chester Law Group, our experienced truck accident lawyers will review the truck inspection records, the trucker’s log book and the maintenance records to see if there were safety issues that were ignored. This is just one of the area that must be examined. This is why it is so important that you contact a knowledgeable and experienced law firm.
Types of Damages that May Be Recovered in a Semi-Truck Accident
A serious truck accident can have devastating affects on a family. Besides severe injuries, the emotional toll can wreak havoc on you and your family. The financial ramifications can be very substantial. Medical bills, loss wages, and even the loss of a vehicle can all combine to make the situation seem as though it can never be rectified. However, Chester Law Group will work to get you the compensation you deserve for medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses.
Do not let the insurance companies offer you a ridiculously low settlement for your injuries and expenses. They only want to pay out the absolute least amount possible. Make sure that your rights are protected and that someone is diligently working to get you and your family the financial compensation that will help so much, now and in the future. The insurance companies will have their lawyers. It is the job of the insurance company’s legal staff to get you to sign away your rights as an injured party or at least to make you admit fault. However, your legal representative will advise you to avoid communication with the insurance company or their attorneys directly. Let your law firm deal with that.
A Few Final Thoughts by Author David Chester Ohio Truck Accident Lawyer
The estimated number of semi-trucks on our nation’s highways are expected to grow by 20% in 2012. This will undoubtedly result in more truck accidents, as well. If you are involved in a serious truck accident, contact Chester Law Group as soon as you are able. The lawyers at Chester Law Group are knowledgeable, experienced and compassionate and they are ready to tackle the trucking company, the insurance company, and their teams of defense lawyers and legal staff. Do not let your rights be “run over.” Contact Chester Law Group today to schedule an appointment and get the representation you need. Call 800-218-4243.