
Large commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers and tractor trailers, frequently travel Alabama’s interstates and major highways. Due to this, there are many 18-wheeler truck accidents in Alabama. According to the Federal Motor Carry Safety Administration, more than 4,000 accidents occur in Alabama each year involving commercial trucks that weigh more than 10,000 pounds. For example, in 2022, there were 4,247 commercial truck accidents in Alabama, Consequently, they resulted in more than 1,800 injuries and 160 deaths.
Why are there so many 18-wheeler truck accidents in Alabama, and what should you do if you are involved in one? Let us answer these questions. The team at Morris Haynes is here to help if you’ve been involved in one of these types of truck accidents.
18-wheelers are often involved in accidents on Alabama roads. There are several reasons:
One of the most significant causes of Alabama truck accidents is driver fatigue. Many truck drivers feel the pressure to meet deadlines and get deliveries to their locations. This can lead to long hours and not enough rest. Without enough sleep, a driver may have a slower reaction time and impaired judgment on the roads.
What causes accidents? Improper lane changes, failure to yield, and not judging the truck’s blind spots.
If a truck driver is trying to make a deadline, they may speed and tailgate. As a result, these maneuvers can be especially hazardous. Also, they can lead to accidents.
Being on the phone, texting, using in-cab technology, and simply not paying attention are all contributing factors to truck accidents in Alabama.
Sometimes, the driver is not totally to blame for an accident. The trucking company may be negligent if it has forced a driver to exceed federal limits on driving hours.
If the company has not provided adequate training or has not taken care of the trucks, they may also be at fault. What are some other issues? Faulty brakes and tires.
Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can cause accidents. It can shift on the road, leading the driver to lose control. This can cause a rollover or jackknife tractor-trailer accident.
There are certain roads that are believed to be more dangerous than others in Alabama. However, accidents can happen on any road.
Roads that are considered the most dangerous in Alabama include:
Take action if you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident.
If possible, move to a safe location and call 911. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention. Some injuries don’t become apparent until hours or even days after an accident happens.
Take photos and videos of the scene if you are able. Be sure to note road conditions and any skid marks that can indicate speed.
Be sure to get the truck driver’s name, license number, insurance information, and contact information. However, police on the scene will also write a report that will contain this information.
Don’t apologize or make statements that can indicate guilt. Also, don’t talk about your accident on social media.
Contact a qualified attorney. The team from Morris Haynes can navigate the complicated process that can unfold following a truck accident.
Typically, you only have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. In fact, if the statute of limitations expires before you take legal action, you will not be able to sue for damages.
It depends on the situation. However, a claim may be filed against the truck driver or manufacturer even if the trucking company is liable. Sometimes, another driver may also be to blame.
They must remain on the scene and report it. Also, they may also face drug testing and a review of their driving record.
When it comes to truck accidents, the team at Morris Haynes Attorneys at Law is here to help. We have helped countless victims receive compensation to cover things like lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Call us today at 205-324-4008 to schedule a free consultation. Reach out to us online to learn more about how we can help you. We have two convenient office locations in Birmingham and Alexander City. Let us provide the representation you deserve when it comes to Alabama truck accidents!
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.