Large truck accidents may not be as common as car crashes, but they are far more deadly. In 2014, there were 11,848 large truck accidents in New York, according to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. Seventy-four of these crashes caused fatalities, and 3,760 caused serious non-fatal injuries.
Many of these victims faced exorbitant medical bills, and some could not return to work. If you were injured in a truck accident, then you may be able to recover your losses in a civil claim.
If the collision happened in New York, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP. A New York City accident lawyer can evaluate your crash to determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim.
Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit http://truck-accident.usattorneys.com/ to learn more about truck accident injury lawsuits.
Here are the top six causes of truck rollovers in New York:
- Speed
Speed is the most common reason that trucks roll over. According to the National Institutes of Health, truck drivers travelling at inappropriate speeds for the conditions cause at least 45 percent of all rollovers.
- Rushing
If a commercial driver is late on a delivery, he or she is far more likely to be in a crash. “Rushing” is closely linked to drivers who speed. In many cases, delayed or late drivers take more risks and pay less attention to the road and potential hazards.
- Road Curves
Curves in the road are a common problem for all road users, but smaller vehicles can usually handle these without rolling over. Trucks have a higher center of gravity, so they are more susceptible to crashes due to sharp bends and sweeping curves.
Tractor-trailers are more likely to be in these crashes than any other vehicle. Many of these rollovers happen at on-ramps and off-ramps.
- Poor Judgment
Truck drivers must exercise good judgment at all times. Just a momentary slip of concentration can cause a serious rollover accident. CMV drivers must adjust their behaviors to weather conditions and the actions of surrounding motorists.
According to the NIH, many speed limits are suitable only for smaller vehicles. A truck driver who attempts to take a corner at the posted limit may cause a crash. Truckers should always be aware of the weight they are carrying and their vehicles’ abilities, and adjust their driving accordingly.
- Vehicle Overloading
Overloading is a common cause of truck accidents and rollovers. If a truck is imbalanced or overloaded, then there is a higher probability that it will roll over. Even the most skilled and cautious truck driver will have difficulty controlling an overloaded vehicle.
If you were injured in a truck accident that another driver caused, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP. A New York City accident attorney can gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation.