Types of Truck Accidents

Types of Truck Crashes

When a big rig or large truck causes an accident with injuries, poor truck driver and trucking company choices, or vehicle maintenance failures are nearly always involved. If you’ve been harmed in a crash due to someone else’s negligence, the Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyers are here for you. 

Below are some of the most common types of truck accidents we deal with for our injured clients and their loved ones. Let our experienced team fight for you throughout California.

Blind Spot Accidents

Also known as “No Zone” crashes, these occur when a truck fails to identify a vehicle that has entered into, or remains in the area where the truck driver’s visibility is significantly limited or obstructed. This often stems from inadequate truck driver training.

Brake Failure Accidents

Mechanical failure, improper maintenance, overheating, and brake system design flaws can all contribute to crashes where truck brakes fail.

Side Underride and Rear Underride Accidents

This type of dangerous collision occurs when a vehicle collides with a large truck or trailer and becomes trapped underneath its trailer. It’s common for the smaller vehicle to lose the entire top of their vehicle as they strike the rear or side of the truck. For this reason, trucks in California are required to have safety measures in place, like reflective tape and trailer lighting, to prevent these incidents. These crashes are devastating and are usually caused by faulty equipment and poor visibility. They are also caused by poor driving choices, like backing a semi-truck across a highway.

Distracted Driving

Truckers who text and drive, use handheld phones and drive, or fail to pay attention on the roads regularly contribute to these catastrophic crashes. 

Driver Fatigue

Unrealistic schedules and pressure from the trucking company or freight broker can often lead to extreme driver fatigue for drivers operating massive trucks with heavy cargo. This is a recipe for disaster and is a form of negligence leading to a truck accident lawsuit.

Head-On Collisions

Two-way roads and highways see far too many head-on collisions, and the size and weight of trucks often make these crashes deadly. Speeding, impaired driving, distraction, fatigue, and driver error are among the top causes of these accidents. 

Intersection Collisions

Intersections require additional care from truck drivers. The majority of crashes that occur in intersections are caused by a failure to yield, running red lights or stop signs, turning errors, speeding, and distracted driving. Truck drivers must exercise extra caution in intersections and make sure they have enough time and space to clear the intersection without putting other vehicles at risk.

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife truck accident happens when a big rig slides or skids on the road and forces the trailer to swing outward, losing control and taking out everything in its path. This movement of the trailer resembles the shape of a folding blade or jackknife. Slippery road conditions, inadequate driver training, braking issues and excessive speeds at curves or turns all contribute to jackknife crashes. 

Mechanical Failure

A truck’s mechanical components and systems must function correctly in order to prevent collisions. Examples of mechanical failure crashes may include tire blowouts, steering failures, brake failures, trailer coupling failures and more. Regular vehicle maintenance and proper pre-trip inspections are crucial in preventing these types of truck accidents. 

Override Accidents

Similar to an underride crash, an override collision occurs when the truck rides completely over the back of a vehicle. The size and weight of tractor trailers often make these crashes deadly. These crashes are almost always caused by human error, like distracted driving and fatigue.

Rear-End Collisions

Like many truck crashes, rear-end collisions are typically preventable. The leading contributors to a rear-end truck accident include tailgating, speeding, distracted driving (including texting), brake failure, heavy traffic congestion, and inexperienced truck drivers. However, poor truck driver training also contributes to these wrecks.

Rollover accidents

Large trucks that overturn on their side typically cause devastating consequences to anything in their path. Tripped rollovers occur when the truck’s tires strike an object like a curb or median and cause the big rig to tip over. An untripped rollover occurs when a high-speed turn or oversteering causes a shift in the center of gravity, causing the truck to tip over. These crashes are especially common in trucks that have high centers of gravity, like cement mixers.

Runaway Trailer Accidents

When the trailer of a semi-truck becomes detached, it becomes uncontrollable, often causing crashes that produce devastating results. Driver error, improper hitching and  mechanical failures all contribute to these kinds of preventable truck accidents. 

Run-Off-Road Collision

When a big rig leaves its intended path or departs the roadway in an unplanned maneuver, obstacles like trees, ditches, and other vehicles become unintended targets, often leading to catastrophic accidents with injuries and fatalities. Driver error, bad weather, poor road conditions, and other factors may all play a role in this type of truck crash. 

Side Collisions: T-bone Accidents

T-bone crashes are also known as broadside collisions and side-impact collisions, and occur when an 18-wheeler or other commercial vehicle impacts another vehicle at approximately a 90 degree angle. The size and weight of big trucks make these accidents particularly dangerous. Running red lights, speeding, distracted driving and other factors contribute to t-bone truck accidents.

Sideswipe Accidents

These types of truck accidents occur when semi-trucks collide into the side of another vehicle, either traveling alongside the truck, or sometimes in the opposite direction. These most commonly happen when one vehicle moves into the adjacent lane and strikes the side of the other vehicle.

These crashes can occur with improper lane change maneuvers, failure to recognize blind spots, improper passing or overtaking of other vehicles, and distracted driving. Speed and angle of the collision can affect the severity of these collisions. 

Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts can quickly lead to loss of vehicle control, especially for semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles. Some of the major contributors in tire blowout crashes include underinflation of tires, overloading the trailer, failure to perform regular tire maintenance, extremely hot weather, curb strikes, road hazards and manufacturing defects. 

Unsecured Cargo

Cargo transported by commercial trucks must be properly secured. When trucking companies fail to restrain the goods they load onto a tractor trailer, a very preventable accident can occur due to the shifting or spilling of contents onto the roadway, often striking other vehicles. Improper loading, inadequate restraints, faulty equipment, and overloading all contribute to these common types of truck accidents.

Poor truck driver training also causes these wrecks. Sometimes trucking companies simply don’t train their drivers.

Wide Turn Accidents

These crashes typically occur when a large truck makes a right turn and collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or other object. Sometimes the semi-truck makes a wide right turn, and a following vehicle may strike the cab of the tractor. The main contributors to wide turn accidents include the challenging turning radius of large trucks, blind spots, failure to signal, improper lane positioning, speed and momentum, and inexperience of the truck driver.

When truck drivers make wide right turns, sometimes the vehicle behind them thinks they are going to turn left, and they begin passing on the right. But when the tractor cuts back right, a collision can occur. This is one reason why truck drivers are supposed to be trained not to make a wide, “jug handle” type turn.

Work Zone Truck Accidents

Construction and maintenance zones on highways and other roadways are common scenes for collisions. These work zone accidents frequently occur due to narrow lanes and inadequate space, changes in speed limits, merging into traffic, and visibility issues. Additional safety measures should always be a part of work zones involving big trucks.

Your next most important step: Start a free, confidential evaluation of your case with our skilled truck accident lawyers. We’ve been fighting for truck accident victims for more than a decade and have recovered millions for our injured clients. Call us 24/7. 

Types of Trucks Involved in Accidents

California leads the entire country with 15.9 million licensed private and commercial trucks on the roads.[1] Every driver and trucking company must follow specific laws and guidelines from the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and the State of California. Many fail to do so, resulting in crashes leading to catastrophic injuries and fatalities. 

Below are some of the most common types of trucks and commercial vehicles involved in accidents. We continually fight for the dignity and justice of our injured clients after a crash with these vehicles and more.

Don’t see the vehicle that caused your injuries? We handle injury cases involving nearly every kind of truck or commercial vehicle. Call us 24/7 to get your important questions answered and to schedule your free case evaluation. 

Common Truck Accident Injuries

As licensed California personal injury attorneys certified in truck accident law, our hearts go out to injured victims and their loved ones. The road to recovery can be challenging because of catastrophic injuries involved with semi-truck collisions. 
Below are some of the most common truck crash injuries our clients experience. These emotional and physical injuries are often complicated, life-altering, and the very reason our experienced truck accident injury lawyers get involved: to fight for the recovery and compensation you deserve after a truck crash.

Unfortunately, additional types of truck accident injuries and fatalities are all too common. Our California truck accident law firm will compassionately fight for the justice every injured victim and loved one deserves. Call us 24/7. 

Typical Causes of Truck Accidents

There are many reasons truck collisions occur, but nearly all of the top causes of semi-truck accidents involve some form of negligence. Simply put, negligence occurs when a big rig driver or trucking company has certain duties and standards they are required by law to keep, yet they violate those requirements, and as a result, someone else gets hurt. 

Below are the most common causes of truck accidents we handle for injured clients.

Common Trucker Violations and Crashes

Maintenance Issues Contributing to Truck Accidents

Trucking companies must keep current with required maintenance on all vehicles in order to ensure the safety of their fleet and other vehicles sharing the roads. They also have to train their drivers to spot maintenance issues before they turn into driving emergencies. When trucking companies fail to do that, accidents, injuries, and fatalities occur. Our experienced truck accident lawyers know how to spot maintenance issues and failures, hold trucking companies accountable, and demand fair compensation for injured victims and their loved ones. 

Below are common maintenance issues that often lead to crashes and a California truck accident lawsuit.

At the Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyers, our attorneys regularly uncover evidence that reveals these dangerous maintenance issues. We’ll take a look at inspection reports, maintenance records, truck black box data, dashcam footage, logbooks, driving history and more. Commercial truckers causing accidents due to maintenance failures must be held accountable. 

California Is an At-Fault State

Unlike some other “No-Fault” states, California is different and is considered an At-Fault state, using a system called Pure Comparative Negligence.[2] This means that the driver who caused the crash is responsible, or “liable,” for paying compensation (known as “damages”) to those who have been injured.

Injured victims can still recover damages even if they are partially or nearly completely at fault (up to 99% at fault), and whatever the injured party collects would be reduced by the percentage they are at fault. So if you are deemed 50 percent at fault, you may still collect 50 percent of the damages. 

Determining Fault in California Truck Accident Cases 

Our California truck accident law works hard to establish liability, or fault, in truck crash cases. How do we determine who is at fault? We’ll take a very close look at all factors and evidence to build your important injury case. This may include:

• Analyzing driver behavior – Did the truck driver violate traffic laws like speeding? Were they texting or showing signs of a distracted driver? Were they tailgating?
• Reviewing vehicle condition and truck maintenance records – Is the trucking company following vehicle compliance requirements?
• Obtaining eyewitness statements, police reports, medical records, photos and video evidence. We’ll bring in expert witnesses and accident reconstruction when needed.
• Investigating trucking company practices – Was the driver properly trained and qualified? Are they overworked or on an unrealistic schedule?
• Looking closely at road conditions and similar factors – Did the trucking company plan a safe route? Were the roads safe enough for trucks at the time of the crash?

Bottom line: In California, every truck driver and trucking company owes a duty of care to all they share the roads with. Did they violate those standards in any way? If so, we’ll fight to establish their fault, and in turn, your right to collect fair compensation for the accident and resulting injuries.

Legal Help for Truck Accidents

No matter the type of truck accident you’ve been involved in, don’t go it alone after a collision with an 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle. Know your legal rights and get the truck accident representation you need and deserve. Call on us 24/7 to discuss your case with a professional. Request a free consultation today. 

Importance of a Truck Accident Lawyer

Navigating complex semi-truck accident cases is best done by an experienced attorney who knows the law, has extensive resources and can guide you through a lawsuit from the get go.

When you call upon our experienced team, here’s how a truck accident lawyer can help:

• You’ll Discover Your Legal Rights– Our free case evaluation will help you determine the strength of your case and strongest next steps.
• We’ll Demand Fair Compensation from those at fault
• We’ll Negotiate the Best Settlement possible for your injuries
• We’ll Litigate in Court through a truck accident lawsuit to get you you fair compensation when trucking companies refuse to negotiate in good faith
• We’ll Go to a Jury Trial if the trucking company and their insurance company refuse to take responsibility for the damage they caused.
• We’ll Use the Contingency Fee Model – That’s the popular “No Fee Until You Win” system helping injured victims across California.

Steps in a Truck Accident Claim

Our licensed and qualified trucking lawyers are here to take you through the entire process of filing a truck accident claim. 

Here’s What To Do if You’ve Been In a Truck Accident

• Call the Police: If you’re involved in a serious truck accident, the first step is call 911. This will make sure that anybody, including you, who is injured can get immediate help right away. The police can also secure the scene and direct traffic to make sure that nobody else gets into a crash.
• Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are number one. First, make sure that you, and everyone involved are okay. Get the help you need and follow all medical advice. Be sure to keep all medical appointments as this will make sure you’re getting the care you need to get better, and it will establish your ongoing need for medical care.
• Report the Accident: California requires the submission of an SR-1 report whenever someone is injured, killed or where property damage exceeds $1,000.[3] Our team can submit this report on your behalf.
• Exchange Contact & Insurance Information: Get this info from the truck driver and any others involved in the collision.
• Take Photos and Videos: Our team can help gather photos and videos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, and noticeable injuries.Make sure to take a picture of the company name and DOT number on the door of the truck, as some “chameleon” trucking companies simply shut down and start up under a new name after they hurt people in crashes.
• Gather Witness Information: Collect contact info from any witnesses.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report essential details to your insurance, but do not answer questions from the trucker’s insurer until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
• Get Truck Accident Attorney Representation: We are one of the few law firms in the entire country with an attorney who is board certified in truck accident law. Start your case by scheduling a free case evaluation.

Here’s What Our Law Firm Will Do for Your Truck Accident Claim

• We’ll Investigate: Our attorneys will review police reports, medical records, and any additional evidence to build a strong case.
• We’ll Find Any Other Company Who May be at Fault: trucking cases are unique because the real trucking company responsible for the load is not always the one written on the door of the tractor. In the trucking industry there are often “hidden” motor carriers, or freight brokers who have responsibility for the load or for causing the wreck. We’ll find everybody who may be responsible and hold them accountable.
• We’ll Meet Filing Deadlines for Truck Accident Claims: Timelines do matter, and sometimes notices have to be sent out within a certain amount of time. We’ll make sure all elements of your claim are filed before your opportunity for a lawsuit expires. Because filing and notice deadlines do exist, we encourage you to reach out to our law firm as soon as possible after an accident.
• Submit a Demand Letter: We’ll make your demands for fair compensation known to the trucking companies and their insurance providers.
• We’ll Negotiate on Your Behalf: You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future lost income, pain and suffering, and more.Does your claim qualify for punitive damages? It might. We’ll work hard to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance providers.
• Case Litigation when Needed: We’ll file a lawsuit when needed and prepare for a trial in court.
• Reach a Settlement or Verdict: If the trucking company negotiates in good faith, you may decide to accept a settlement. But when they do not offer a fair settlement, we’ll be prepared to argue your case in court and demand a fair verdict from a judge or jury.
• Collect Your Compensation and Close Your Case: Once a settlement or verdict has been reached, we’ll finalize any remaining details to help you collect recoverable damages.

Don’t delay. Reach out to our experienced truck crash lawyers 24/7 to get started on your injury claim.

Truck Accident Statistics

Truck accidents in California and throughout the US all too often include catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Below are some of the most notable statistics on commercial truck accidents.

Most Common Types of Truck Accidents and Injuries They Cause

According to the FMCSA, the most common type of truck accident with serious injuries or fatalities involves overturned vehicles.[4] The size, force, and cargo of tractor trailers and other large commercial vehicles make these crashes particularly dangerous. 

Other notable truck accident statistics from the same FMCSA report in 2020 include:

• Nearly 5,000 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes
• Nearly 50,000 large trucks were involved in injury crashes
• Hazardous materials involving flammable liquids (gasoline, fuel oil, etc.) accounted for 68 percent of the hazardous materials releases from cargo compartments in fatal crashes
• Tractors pulling a single semi-trailer accounted for 53 percent of the large trucks involved in fatal crashes in 2020, while tractors pulling two trailers (doubles) made up 3 percent of the large trucks involved in fatal crashes

Statistics on the Most Common Types of Truck Accidents

Another study from the FMCSA [5] hones in on the top critical events that contributed to large truck crashes. The three most significant events and statistics include:

• 32 percent of trucks involved in crashes ran out of the travel lane, either into another lane or off the road
• 29 percent of collisions with trucks had a loss of control due to “traveling too fast for conditions, cargo shift, vehicle systems failure, poor road conditions, or other reasons”
• 22 percent of crashes involved a rear end crash in the truck’s travel lane

What Statistics Say About Types of Truck Accident

Perhaps the most significant truck accident statistic focuses on the real victims of truck crashes. According to the National Safety Council, “The majority of deaths in large-truck crashes are occupants of other vehicles (70%), followed by truck occupants (19%), and non-occupants, primarily pedestrians and bicyclists (11%).”[6]As the study notes, even though a significant number of truckers have tragically died in truck crashes (26%), most injuries and fatalities actually occurred to occupants of other vehicles (73%).

The takeaway: Truck accidents regularly cause harm to motorists. When a truck crash occurs, the people in the other vehicles are the ones who suffer.

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a big rig or large truck, we are here to help you get the justice you and your loved ones deserve. 

Get started with our “No Fee Unless You Win Lawyers” today.

Contact Us

Your next important step: Contact the Los Angeles Truck Accident Lawyers for help with your case anywhere in the state of California. Schedule your free case evaluation and learn more about our No Fee Commitment to you – nothing recovered, nothing owed! Our lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for injured people and their loved ones.

Call us 24/7 at (213) 510-3261 to begin your confidential, free case review, or fill out the form below

Resources

• Recent Case Results – See our settlements and verdicts
• Meet Truck Accident Attorney Jordan M. Jones
• About Us – Learn more about our law firm
• Testimonials & Reviews – Hear from our clients
• Contingency Fees – Learn about our attorney fee structure