Deadly truck accidents are on the rise, and the numbers are alarming. In 2021, 5,788 fatalities resulted from crashes involving large trucks, a 17% increase from the previous year. This surge is not just a statistic; it signifies a growing danger on California roads.
The sheer size and weight of these vehicles make accidents particularly devastating. When crashes happen, holding negligent parties accountable can be complex, often involving multiple entities and intricate legalities.
Fatal crashes have increased 75%
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data reveals a troubling trend. Fatal crashes involving large trucks have increased 75% over the past decade. Here are some key findings from 2021:
- 72% of people killed in large-truck crashes were motorists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists.
- 78% of fatal crashes involving semi trucks and other large commercial vehicles occurred on weekdays.
- 3% of truck drivers involved in deadly crashes had blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .08 or higher.
- A higher percentage of truck drivers were involved in previous crashes.
These statistics highlight the significant impact of large-truck accidents on road safety. Understanding these trends is crucial for developing strategies to reduce fatalities and injuries.
Who can you hold responsible?
Personal injury claims in truck accidents can be complicated. Multiple parties may be at fault and identifying them is critical to a successful claim. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The truck driver might have been negligent or violating traffic laws.
- The trucking company may have failed to maintain the vehicle properly or pushed drivers beyond safe limits.
- Cargo companies, especially if improperly loaded cargo contributed to the accident.
- Other third parties, such as maintenance providers or manufacturers of faulty truck parts.
Given the complexity of these cases, it’s essential to seek legal help from an experienced truck accident lawyer. Many of these parties have deep pockets with attorneys who aggressively protect their bottom lines. Having a knowledgeable lawyer in your corner who understands the intricacies of these cases can help you get the compensation you deserve.