Why Rear-End Truck Crashes Happen
Most rear-end accidents involving semi-trucks can be prevented with proper driving. Like all drivers, commercial operators have a duty to remain alert and attentive while operating commercial vehicles. Engaging in activities or behavior that distracts or increases the risk of collision is prohibited by both state law and federal regulations applicable to commercial drivers.
By definition, a rear-end accident involves one vehicle crashing into the back of another. Behavior that increases the likelihood of crashing into the back of another vehicle includes:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Following too closely
- Traveling too fast for conditions
- Distractions such as cell phones and other electronics
- Driver fatigue or exhaustion
Preventing each of these potential causes of a rear-end collision is within the control of the driver. The driver chooses their rate of speed, the distance between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them, the time they drive in a single day, the use of electronics or other devices, or any other behavior that increases the likelihood of accident or injury. When a truck driver engages in behavior that results in a rear-end collision, the law deems the actions negligent.
Under the law of negligence, truck drivers are responsible for all harm caused by their negligent actions. If you were injured in a rear-end collision with a commercial vehicle, investigating the accident to determine the actions of the driver leading up to the collision will provide information regarding the trucker’s liability.
When a trucker demonstrates clear negligence prior to an accident, it is important to look beyond the driver and into the actions of the motor carrier permitting the driver to operate on public roadways. Commercial motor carriers are responsible for training their drivers on safe driving practices and instituting policies to ensure drivers adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. The FMCSA is designed to protect motorists from the unique risks posed by commercial trucks. A motor carrier that flaunts its duty to train and manage its drivers can be held directly responsible when its drivers cause an accident resulting from a lack of training. Trained truck accident attorneys can identify the root cause of an accident and hold all wrongdoers accountable.
While the majority of rear-end accidents will result from driver error, there are other causes of rear-end accidents that require a special investigation conducted by trained product liability lawyers. When a truck experiences a mechanical failure of some kind, rear-end accidents often follow. For instance, the term “runaway truck” refers to a situation where a truck’s brakes fail, potentially causing a trucker to crash into other motorists. Likewise, tire failures can cause a trucker to lose control of the vehicle or limit stopping power, resulting in rear-end collisions. These are all complicated situations that require trained truck accident attorneys to sort through.
For motorists injured in a rear-end accident with a commercial truck, it is important to remember that you need a trained attorney that has the skill and resources to fight on your behalf. While rear-end collisions seem to be cut and dry, recovering the compensation you deserve will largely depend on the trucking lawyer you hire.
Contact Our Rear-End Collision Lawyers Today
No matter what the circumstances of your truck accident are, even if the liability is clearly not yours, it is important that your accident is investigated by trained professionals. Commercial motor vehicle accidents are complicated. You deserve to know everyone that contributed to the accident to ensure such behavior is corrected and that you receive the compensation you are entitled under the law. At The Ammons Law Firm, we can help you. We have the training, experience, and resources to help you. We have the processes and procedures, relationships with experts, and the track record to help you. We know how to build your case to maximize your recovery and work tirelessly to do so. Contact us today to learn how we can help you move forward.
