There are more than 15.5 million commercial trucks operating in the United States today. With some of the nation’s largest manufacturers based in the state, California plays a significant role in the transportation of goods by commercial truck. Due to the large number of commercial trucks traveling the state’s highways and roads, truck accidents are a frequent occurrence.
According to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), California had more than 330 fatal truck accidents in 2003, the third highest in the nation.
Truck Accidents Caused by Negligent Truck Drivers
Tired truck drivers are one of the leading causes of Oakland truck accidents. Because many truck drivers are paid by the miles they log and not by the number of hours they work, truck drivers often choose to skip required meal and rest periods. Sleep deprivation can cause fatigue, drowsiness, and clumsiness and adversely affect cognitive function. It is estimated that fatigued drivers cause almost 30 percent of all truck accidents. Alcohol and drug abuse is also a contributing factor in some commercial truck accidents. Substance abuse affects the central nervous system, which produces changes in levels of awareness and sensation. Truck drivers who abuse alcohol or drugs are in direct violation of federal regulations and could face civil and criminal charges.
Types of Oakland Truck Accident Injuries
Survivors of a semi-truck, 18-wheeler, big-rig, or tractor-trailer collision are usually afflicted with some type of catastrophic injury. Catastrophic injuries are life-threatening injuries that often impart severe physical and mental disabilities. Head injuries, spinal cord injuries, burn injuries, brain injuries and amputation (limb loss) injuries are all considered catastrophic injuries. Sadly, almost 98 percent of passenger vehicle occupants will experience a fatal injury in a truck accident.
What to Do Following a Truck Accident
Regardless of how a victim feels or looks, any individual involved in a truck accident should immediately seek medical attention. Not only is seeing a doctor within the best interest of the victim’s physical welfare, but it also serves as a record of treatment. Except for local law enforcement, victims should refrain from speaking to anyone about the accident. Any recollections or details of the accident should be written down in a private journal. Lastly, it is recommended victims talk to a personal injury lawyer well versed in truck accident litigation. An experienced truck accident lawyer can make certain victims’ legal rights are protected.
Maximum Compensation for Serious Truck Accident Injuries
In the days following your accident, an insurance adjuster may contact you. Beware of any settlement offers made to you by the insurance adjuster. An insurance company’s first settlement offer is often the lowest. Most insurance companies want to close a claim quickly, typically before the full extent of your injuries is known. You may be entitled to much more compensation than what is being offered to you, so make sure you consult a qualified personal injury attorney before accepting any insurance company settlement offers.
