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Everything You Need to Know About Big Trucks and Why They Crash

Commercial trucks play an extraordinarily large part in America’s economy. Consider the following statistics:

  • Approximately 36.9 million commercial trucks are registered in the U.S.
  • They drive around 305 billion miles on the nation’s roads each year.
  • They carry over 72% of the nation’s freight.
  • They pay almost $792 billion in gross freight revenues annually.
  • They pay almost $46 billion in federal and state highway-user taxes annually.
  • The nation’s 928,647 private trucking companies employ 3.6 million truck drivers.
  • Each day, over 800,000 trucks carry hazardous materials across the U.S.
  • A tractor pulling two fully loaded trailers weighs over 80,000 pounds, compared with the average passenger vehicle that weighs around 4,000 pounds.
  • Every commercial truck has a “no zone” behind and on either side of it where its driver can’t see you.

Your Vulnerability

Unfortunately, approximately 500,000 trucking accidents occur each year in the U.S., and upwards of 5,000 of these result in someone’s death. Given the enormous size and weight disparities between your vehicle and a big rig, it’s easy to see why your chances of sustaining serious injuries in a truck crash are exceedingly high.You may need to consult trucking accident lawyers College Park MD.

Top Reasons Why Big Trucks Crash

The top five reasons, not necessarily in order, why big trucks crash are:

  1. Driver error
  2. Improper cargo loading
  3. Inclement weather
  4. Poor vehicle maintenance
  5. Equipment failure

1. Driver Error

Despite their experience and training, truck drivers are just as likely to make mistakes or poor decisions as anyone else. Some of the most common include:

  • Driving while fatiguedtrucking accident lawyers College Park MD
  • Driving while distracted
  • Driving at an excessive rate of speed
  • Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

2. Improper Cargo Loading

The way in which trucking company employees or shippers load a big rig with cargo makes all the difference. If the cargo is improperly secured, the load can shift, especially while going around curves and corners. The results can be catastrophic, not only for the truck driver, but also for you and any other vehicles in the vicinity.

3. Inclement Weather

Rain, snow, ice and wind can play havoc with any vehicle on the road. In terms of a big rig, however, the danger is increased due to the truck’s weight, length and increased stopping distances. In addition, a truck driver’s attempts to slow or stop his or her vehicle can lead to skidding, hydroplaning or jackknifing.

4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Given the immense wear and tear that big trucks are subjected to, the possibility of worn brake pads, leaking brake and other fluids and cracked windshields that prevent drivers from clearly seeing what’s ahead of them is ever present.

5. Equipment Failure

Even if the trucking company diligently maintains its fleet, it likely can’t prevent a crash caused by an actual failure of one or more of the truck’s components. If the truck manufacturer used inferior materials, or if a component contains an inherently dangerous design flaw, such defects can easily cause a crash.

If you’ve been injured in accident, it’s a good idea to contact trucking accident lawyers College Park MD. If you decide to pursue your case, trucking accident lawyers College Park MD can help get you the compensation you deserve.

The attorneys at Cohen & Cohen have settled over 10,000 cases since 1993; our trucking accident lawyers College Park MD can help – contact us today at (202) 955-4529 for a free case evaluation.

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"I had a great experience with the team at Cohen & Cohen. From my intake attorney, Adam, to the paralegal, Bryan, who worked with me regularly for months to document and prepare my case, to Jill, the attorney who secured my settlement, I feel fortunate to have had their representation and expertise on my side."
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Cohen & Cohen has an  impeccable Client Satisfaction Rating with hundreds of
5 STAR Reviews. We are among the best-rated firms in the areas we serve.

L Proctor
August 30, 2022.
My experience with Cohen &Cohen was beyond my expectations. Jill did an amazing job with negotiating on my behalf and got me way more money than I anticipated. Thank you for having my back.
Ebony Stoutmiles
June 23, 2022.
To say that I am happy with the outcome of my case is the understatement of the century! Jill Stanley is a BEAST at what she does. That is the only way to explain it. She takes no prisoners. She and her team are very skilled and knowledgeable. I am so happy I trusted them to do their job and rolled with Jill's suggestions. I would choose Jill again 100 times. She settled my case for more than I imagined I would receive. I was literally in tears. It is the best feeling to know my pain isn't for naught. Wayne Cohen and Kristopher Yorke were nothing short of amazing. They have the patience of saints. I'm 100% certain that I got on their last nerves with my frustration and tears at every other call I had with them. Being in pain and wanting to just be able to heal was all I could focus on, but they helped me realize that I also had to focus on the bigger picture (the case) so I could put this piece behind me. As a high-strung individual with anxiety, it was hard for me to not worry and let them do their jobs, but they reassured me all of the time that they had this. To be injured before the start of the pandemic and have to receive regular, weekly treatment while others are able to stay home is anxiety inducing. I was in pain, I was anxious, and I was just hoping it all worked out. It more than worked out. I hope Jill, Siri, and Kris know how much their hard work and "hanging in there" meant to me. I am eternally grateful. I can't recommend you all enough. If you choose this law firm, you won't be sorry!
Beloved Temple
June 3, 2022.
I was very pleased with the handling of my case and settlement with Cohen& Cohen. I appreciate them, would highly recommend them.
willie howell
May 25, 2022.
COHEN & COHEN ARE THE BEST I WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END CAR CRASH AND 2 YEARS LATER I HAVE RECEIVED MY SETTLEMENT I AM VERY EXCITED TO SAY BRYAN!!! IS THE MAN HE INSURED THEY WILL TAKE CARE OF ME AND THEY DID 100% ANY QUESTIONS I ASKED THEY WERE ANSWERED. Jill and SIRI WAS ALSO REMARKABLE AND SHOWED THEY REALLY CARED I RECOMMEND COHEN &COHEN TO ANYONE THEY ALSO MADE SURE I GOT MORE THAN EXPECTED WHICH WAS AMAZING I APPRECIATE YOU GUYS THANK U💯
Jose Rivera
May 25, 2022.
The legal team at cohen & cohen did a great job I really appreciate the hard work on gating my compensation in a fair amount of time. Special thanks to Kris for a wonderful job
Lea Harvey
May 25, 2022.
I had a great experience with the team at Cohen & Cohen. From my intake attorney, Adam, to the paralegal, Bryan, who worked with me regularly for months to document and prepare my case, to Jill, the attorney who secured my settlement, I feel fortunate to have had their representation and expertise on my side.
Cameron Galloway (HustleDaGod)
May 19, 2022.
Kris was phenomenal. Spectacular communication & knowledge in regards to my case. Would definitely return if I needed more legal services. 100% definitely recommend.