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Accidents involving semi-trucks are, unfortunately, all too common. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported approximately 510,000 large truck accidents in 2019. These accidents often have catastrophic results; the FMCSA further reported that 4,479 of those trucking collisions resulted in at least one fatality.
So, what are some of the most common accidents involving semi-trucks? Here are five of the most frequent:
Underride Accidents
Trucking underride accidents occur when a smaller passenger vehicle collides with the back of a large commercial truck, and the car becomes wedged underneath the truck. These accidents are often deadly, as the weight of the truck can crush the passengers in the smaller vehicle.
To help prevent these accidents, many trucks are now required to have underride guards. These guards are designed to absorb the impact of a collision and prevent the smaller vehicle from becoming lodged underneath the truck. However, underride guards are not foolproof and can be damaged or torn off in a severe collision. As a result, drivers need to exercise caution when sharing the road with large trucks.
Jackknifing Accidents
Trucking jackknife accidents are a type of truck accident that can be very dangerous. They occur when a truck trailer swings out from behind the truck cab, forming a 90-degree angle. This can happen when the trailer is carrying a heavy load or if the truck is going too fast around a corner. Jackknife accidents can also occur if the trailer brakes fail. When a jackknife accident happens, it can cause severe damage to property and serious injury or even death to people in the vicinity.
Wide Turn Accidents
Trucking wide turn accidents are a type of trucking accident that can occur when a truck driver tries to make a wide turn and ends up hitting another vehicle or object. These accidents can be caused by several factors, including distractions, poor judgment, and inexperience. In some cases, they may also be caused by equipment failure. Trucking wide turn accidents often result in serious injuries or even death.
Rollovers
Trucking rollover accidents can be some of the most serious highway crashes due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. When a tractor-trailer or other large truck overturns, it can block traffic, cause damage to nearby cars and structures, and lead to injuries or even fatalities.
Rollover accidents are often caused by driver error, such as speeding, making sudden lane changes, or driving while distracted or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. However, in some cases, mechanical failures or poor road conditions may also contribute to a rollover accident.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of traffic accidents, regardless of whether the vehicles involved are cars, trucks, or motorcycles. With commercial trucks, however, these types of accidents can be incredibly destructive due to the size and weight disparities between big rigs and passenger vehicles. If a truck is following too closely behind you, little can be done to prevent a collision in case of sudden braking. The best way to avoid rear-end collisions is to give trucks plenty of room and avoid being in the same lane.
If you were involved in a trucking accident that resulted in injury, contact us today at (314) 684-8285 or fill out our form online.