A typical commercial truck weighs up to 80,000 pounds while the average passenger vehicle weighs about 4,000 pounds. Therefore, those who are in a passenger vehicle are likely to be injured or killed in a collision with a commercial truck. Commercial trucks that are not properly maintained are more likely to cause an accident compared to those that are kept in good working order. Ideally, drivers will check to see that the brakes and other important components are in a safe condition before they embark on a delivery.
If an accident is caused by a defective part, the part manufacturer could be liable for any damages that an injured victim incurs. Other parties such as the company that sold the part or the person who installed it could also be named as defendants in a personal injury case.
Inclement weather conditions can play a role in causing a crash to occur. Typically, it takes longer for a large vehicle to stop when there is rain, snow or ice on the road. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and use proper techniques to minimize their chances of being in a crash during periods of poor weather. Finally, commercial drivers should not operate their trucks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. They should also refrain from driving while distracted or from driving in a reckless fashion.
A person who is hurt in a motor vehicle accident may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and lost future earnings. The estate of a person killed in an accident may also be entitled to compensation, even if the person who causes the crash dies as well. An attorney may be able to use witness testimony and other evidence to show that a crash was caused by another party’s negligence.
