Semi-truck accidents in Albuquerque can have devastating consequences due to their larger size which can cause serious injuries or even death. There are a variety of causes that can result in a semi-truck accident, and the litigation process can be difficult and complex. At Whitner Law Firm, our team can help you expertly navigate your case and help determine what the main cause of the accident was. We will work with you every step of the way to help you get the compensation and justice you deserve. Find out the common causes of these accidents and contact us for a free consultation regarding your case.
Driving While Fatigued
Fatigue can affect any driver, but it can become especially dangerous when driving a semi-truck. Regulations limit the number of hours a driver can travel in a single day, but since many semi-truck drivers are paid based on miles, it can motivate them to complete jobs faster. Fatigue can cause drivers to start driving more erratically and drift into other lanes, which can lead to a serious accident. If a driver ignores regulations and stays on the road for longer than permitted, it can put both themselves and others at risk.
Road Conditions & Bad Weather
Trucks can also get into serious accidents due to inclement weather. Just like other vehicles on the road, semi-tucks can be affected by heavy rain, snow, and ice on the road. However, unlike other cars, wind can be a much more serious problem for semi-trucks. The boxy design of the trailers is not aerodynamic, and strong winds can push against trailers and tip over the whole truck. Drivers should be prepared to compensate for weather conditions or pull over and wait for conditions to improve, but accidents can still occur due to bad weather.
Maintenance Issues
Semi-trucks need to be maintained on a regular basis to ensure they are safe to be on the road. If maintenance is ignored, problems can add up and cause serious accidents. A common and serious issue is brake failure. If they are not up to standards, the brakes could fail and cause the semi-truck to lose control, leading to serious accidents. Other problems that can cause the driver to lose control are engine failure, tire failure, and spark plug fires. It is both the responsibility of the driver and the company to check vehicles regularly to ensure that both the driver and others on the road are safe.
At Whitener Law Firm, our team has extensive experience in semi-truck accident cases in Albuquerque. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, call us today to schedule a free consultation and get help from knowledgeable personal injury attorneys.