When a commercial truck accident happens, it can cause devastating injuries to those who are involved. There are a variety of ways that truck accidents can happen. Usually, they are due to the unsafe behavior of drivers, such as distracted driving, drowsy driving, speeding, etc. While this is true, there are also many accidents that are caused by inclement weather. This is because weather such as rain, snow, or fog can impair the road conditions and make it dangerous for truck drivers.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), when winds are greater than 25 miles per hour, they can impact a truck driver’s ability to keep control of the vehicle. Due to the vehicle’s large surface area, wind resistance can build up on one side of the truck and cause it to tip over on the road. This is often seen on highways, bridges, overpasses, and open prairies. It is important for truck drivers to be aware of these risks so that they do not cause accidents. Continue reading below to learn more.
What are Causes of Wind-Related Truck Accidents?
When winds are strong, there are many different ways it can increase the risk of a dangerous truck accident. This can include the following conditions:
- High crosswinds: When there is a strong gust of wind, it can cause the truck to sway when it is traveling. If the wind is strong enough, it can cause the truck to tip over.
- Improperly loaded cargo: If the cargo on the truck is not loaded the right way, the contents can shift and cause an uneven weight distribution in the truck. This can affect the driver’s ability to navigate the vehicle, especially during high winds.
- Failure to take appropriate action for weather conditions: Truck drivers are required to check the weather regularly so that they know how to take the right safety precautions when driving. This can include slowing down to a safe speed, pulling over until conditions improve, planning an alternative route, etc.
What Types of Accidents are Caused by Strong Winds?
There are different types of accidents that can be caused during inclement weather such as strong winds. This can include:
- Rollover accidents: If a large gust of wind hits a truck, it can cause the driver to lose control and roll the vehicle over on its side. If this happens on a busy highway, it can crush other passenger vehicles on the road.
- Underride accidents: If a truck driver hits the brakes to control the vehicle when it is hit by a gust of wind, a vehicle that is following closely can crash into the rear or side of the truck, causing it to slide underneath.
- Jackknife accidents: This happens when a driver hits the brakes too hard and causes the trailer of the truck to fold in on itself, forming a 90-degree angle.
- Lost load accidents: Improperly loaded cargo can come loose and fall out of the trail onto the road, causing accidents.
What do I do if I’m Injured in a Truck Accident?
There are various injuries that can be caused in a truck accident. This can include back and neck, spinal cord, head and brain, serious injuries, burns, amputation, disfigurement, internal injuries, etc. Individuals who sustain these injuries can pursue legal action to recover compensation for their damages. This can be done by filing a personal injury claim in which they are required to prove negligence took place, directly causing the accident and their injuries. A proper attorney can assist during this time by helping to gather evidence such as medical documentation of the injuries, pictures or video of the scene, witness testimonies, etc.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured as a result of a personal injury accident and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
