Mesa Truck Accident Attorneys

Common Types of Truck Accidents

A truck accident refers to any collision involving large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or delivery trucks, with other vehicles, pedestrians, or property. Given the sheer size and weight of trucks, these accidents are often catastrophic, resulting in significant damage and serious injuries.

Truck accidents can take various forms, including:

• Jackknife Accidents – When the trailer of a truck swings out and forms a 90-degree angle with the cab, typically due to sudden braking or slippery conditions.
• Rear-End Collisions – Trucks failing to stop in time can cause devastating rear-end accidents, especially with smaller vehicles.
• Underride Accidents – When a smaller vehicle slides underneath the truck’s trailer, often resulting in fatal injuries.
• T-Bone Collisions – Occur at intersections when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle.
• Rollover Accidents – When a truck overturns due to high speeds, sharp turns, or uneven weight distribution.
• Wide-Turn Accidents – Happen when a truck makes a wide turn and collides with nearby vehicles or pedestrians.
• Blind Spot Accidents – Trucks have larger blind spots than passenger cars, leading to collisions when a truck driver doesn’t see a nearby vehicle.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Understanding the causes of truck accidents is essential for determining liability and pursuing a strong claim. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver Fatigue – Federal regulations limit driving hours, but some truck drivers push beyond these limits, leading to exhaustion and impaired reaction times.
• Distracted Driving – Texting, using a GPS, eating, or other distractions can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road.
• Speeding or Reckless Driving – Due to tight delivery schedules, some truck drivers may speed or engage in aggressive driving behaviors.
• Improper Maintenance – Failing to inspect and maintain brakes, tires, and other vital parts can lead to mechanical failures.
• Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo – Unbalanced or overloaded cargo can cause a truck to tip over or lose control.
• Driving Under the Influence – Some truck drivers may operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications.
• Poor Weather Conditions – Rain, fog, or ice can increase the likelihood of a crash, especially when drivers fail to adjust their driving to the conditions.
• Inadequate Training – Inexperienced drivers who lack proper training may struggle to handle large trucks safely.

Each case is unique, and determining the root cause of an accident often requires thorough investigation and expert analysis.

Call us today at (623) 207-1555 to see how we can help you.