Blog: Truck Accidents - Page 6

To receive damages for injuries sustained in a truck accident, you must understand the laws that govern them in your state.

Wide turn truck accidents are a major source of serious injury and death on our highways, including in Mississippi.

Big rig jackknifing accidents often result in catastrophic outcomes due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Big rigs can weigh up to 80,000 lbs whereas passenger cars only weigh around 3,000 lbs – this means that collisions with big rigs can cause massive destruction.

Underride/override accidents involving large trucks are often serious due to the size and weight of the truck. Unfortunately, many of these accidents result in fatalities or life-changing injuries. In particular, “underride” accidents—where a smaller vehicle passes under a larger vehicle—and “override” accidents—where a larger vehicle runs over a smaller one—are particularly dangerous due to their violent nature.

Tanker trucks are large vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials, including flammable liquids, gasses, and chemicals. Accidents involving these types of trucks can be particularly dangerous due to the potential for fires, explosions, and toxic spills.

When big rig rollovers occur, they often end up involving other, smaller vehicles. Because of the much larger size and weight of a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle, traumatic injuries and fatalities can happen. If the driver or company that owns the truck is negligent, an injured party may file a personal injury claim while grieving families may sue for wrongful death.

If you have been involved in a truck accident, you are likely facing significant challenges. You may be dealing with medical bills, an inability to work and other issues that come as part of the aftermath of such an event. In addition, there may be legal matters that need to be addressed. When it comes time to navigate the legal system after a truck crash injury, having a qualified lawyer on your side can make all the difference.

Many of the truck accidents that occur in Mississippi are caused by negligent driving behaviors, including speeding, distracted driving and failing to obey traffic laws. In 2019, 9.5 percent of all fatal accidents in Mississippi involved large trucks, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Dump trucks are everywhere from urban roads to rural routes. Both big rigs and dump trucks are considered commercial vehicles. A negligent driver who caused a multiple-vehicle accident may be held financially liable for injuries sustained by others. In most cases, dump trucks are owned by companies whose drivers are employed. However, the employer may also be held responsible.