Nothing has a more devastating impact than a semi-truck when it collides with a smaller vehicle. Due to the sheer size and weight of a fully loaded semi-truck, accidents that involve them often result in severe injuries, totaled vehicles, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, you can contact Chaz Roberts Law to receive the compensation that you deserve.
The Recent Lafayette Tragedy
When it comes to semi-truck accidents, the most recent tragedy in Lafayette, LA, is still being investigated by the police department. This fatal crash claimed the life of a passenger in a smaller vehicle when the semi-truck crashed into the passenger side of the vehicle.
This accident is still under investigation, but the authorities have shared that there were no signs of impairment by the truck driver. It is unfortunate when these tragic accidents happen, but the families involved have a right to seek compensation for their lost loved one.
Why Semi-Truck Accidents are Especially Dangerous
Semi-trucks frequent our highways as they try to ensure all of our goods make it across the country. But they come with a hefty price tag, which is the damage they can cause when they are involved in an accident. In the US, semi-truck accidents account for about 500,000 accidents a year. Although the sheer size and weight of the trucks cause the most damage, they aren’t the only factors that make these accidents especially dangerous.
Size & Weight: A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and travel at speeds of 70-80 miles an hour. With small passenger vehicles weighing around 3,000 pounds, the disparity in size leaves passengers of smaller vehicles immensely vulnerable.
Braking Distance: Trucks require significant braking distance, which only increases in winter weather compared to smaller cars. A rear-end collision can be catastrophic if a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance or an unexpected vehicle enters their lane, such as in the Lafayette accident.
Blind Spots: Semi-trucks and their size have extensive blind spots, leaving truck drivers unable to see some cars around them. If a truck driver merges or changes lanes too swiftly, they will collide with any vehicle in their blind spot.
Rollover Potential: From losing traction on a wintery road to top heavy loose cargo, semi-trucks have the potential to roll over and jackknife on the highway during sharp turns or any sudden maneuvers, even if they are for a defensive reason. Losing control of a semi-truck can be devastating and impact multiple lanes of traffic at one time.
Cargo Spills: Many semi-trucks on the roads carry hazardous or dangerous cargo; in the event of an accident, that cargo can spill onto the road. Any cargo that is spilled can pose a threat to other vehicles, their passengers, and the environment.
Injuries sustained from semi-truck accidents are extensive and severe. If you or a loved one is ever involved in a semi-truck accident, you should always seek medical attention. Your safety and physical wellbeing is the top priority.
The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation After a Semi-Truck Accident
After an accident, you can be facing insurmountable medical bills, property damage, wrongful death of a family member, and financial ruin. You shouldn’t have to face these alone and without financial compensation by those who should be held liable for your family’s suffering.
Working with an experienced legal team will ensure that you can start filing a claim to receive the compensation you deserve. This compensation can help you pay for your medical bills, property damage, and even any lost wages from being unable to work due to the accident. This is not an easy process, and navigating the legal landscape and time restraints should only be done with a car accident attorney by your side. At Chaz Roberts Law, we will be able to identify all the liable parties responsible for providing your family with compensation and have the honor of representing your family.
Chaz Roberts Law: Here to Help You
Victims of truck accidents face significant financial burdens while they are just trying to heal and put their lives back together. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a truck driver’s negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help after a semi-truck accident. Contact Chaz Roberts Law, and we can work to secure your family’s financial future after a tragedy.
