The 5 Most Common Types of Truck Accidents

Trucks are crucial for our economy, but they can be dangerous on the road due to their size and weight. In 2021, there were half a million reported truck accidents in the U.S. It’s important to know the common types of truck accidents and their injuries to stay safe. A truck accident attorney can also help you get the compensation you deserve.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the risks trucks pose on the road and how to understand common truck accidents and injuries. Plus, we’ll explore how a truck accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Why Are Truck Accidents More Dangerous?

Truck accidents are often more dangerous than car accidents because trucks are heavier and carry larger loads. 

This means that there is a stronger impact when they collide with smaller vehicles. Additionally, trucks often transport hazardous materials, which can increase the severity of truck injuries in accidents.

The Most Common Types of Truck Accidents in California

Truck accidents can happen due to various factors, including negligence by truck drivers, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and the challenge for smaller cars to maneuver around larger vehicles.

Here are some of the most common types of truck accidents that occur on the road:

Jackknife

This occurs when a truck folds into itself, forming a 90-degree angle between the cab and the trailer. It often happens due to sudden braking or locked brakes, leading to the trailer swinging out and potentially causing a hazardous obstacle on the road.

Wide-Turn Collisions

When a driver swings to make a turn, it’s known as a wide turn. Truck drivers may misjudge the length of their vehicle when making turns, trapping cars and pedestrians in the process.

Truck Rollovers

Loss of control can cause a truck to roll onto its side, endangering other drivers and pedestrians. Factors like high speed, steep inclines, or slippery surfaces can contribute to rollover accidents.

T-bone Accidents

Also known as side-impact collisions, these occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. They’re often the result of truck drivers running red lights and striking other vehicles perpendicularly.

Tire Blowout

When a truck’s tire suddenly bursts, it can lead to loss of control and collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians.

Encountering trucks involved in accidents is not uncommon, especially on highways or interstates. Their size and limited maneuverability contribute to such incidents more frequently than one might expect.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

If you find yourself in a truck accident, follow these steps:

Stay at the Accident Scene

Ensure you and the other driver remain at the scene to avoid hit-and-run charges. Move your vehicle to the side of the road to ensure the safety of other motorists.

Contact the Authorities

Seek immediate assistance from the police and paramedics. They will evaluate the situation and provide prompt medical attention to injured individuals. Remember, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it’s essential to get checked by medical experts, especially for signs of internal bleeding.

Exchange Contact and Insurance Information

Obtain important details from the other drivers and passengers involved in the accident. Their contact and insurance information will be crucial for supporting your claims. Additionally, gather witness statements and take photos of the scene before leaving to serve as evidence.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and property damages. Consult with a California truck accident lawyer who can guide you through your situation and navigate the complexities of your claim effectively.

Common Truck Accident Injuries in California

Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries compared to collisions involving only passenger vehicles. Various factors, such as distracted driving and equipment malfunction, contribute to the heightened risk.

Here are some common injuries you may sustain in a truck accident:

Lacerations

Shattered glass and airborne debris during a crash can cause minor to severe cuts on the skin.

Whiplash

The rapid back-and-forth movement of the head during a collision can lead to neck and back injuries and whiplash, often causing symptoms like blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and sensitivity to light.

Fractures

Victims may suffer broken bones in the arms, wrists, legs, or ankles due to the force of the collision.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Head injuries resulting from front or rear-end collisions can cause traumatic brain injuries, including brain swelling and bleeding.

Paralysis

In severe cases, vehicle collisions can tear or sever the spine. This can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis that could limit a person’s range of motion.

Speak With a California Truck Accident Attorney

If you’ve been in a truck accident in California, it’s important to consult a specialized California truck accident attorney right away. 

After the accident, make sure to get medical and police help for official documentation. With proper records and witness statements, you can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

At Adamson Ahdoot, we’re here to help you. If you’ve been injured or your vehicle is damaged, we can assist you in getting the compensation you deserve. Call us at (800) 310-1606 for a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.