Accidents involving 18-wheelers, also known as semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, are among the most serious and potentially deadly incidents on the road. Due to their large size and weight, these vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries and devastating damage in the event of a collision. Read on to learn more about accidents involving 18-wheelers from an experienced Houston accident attorney.
Most Common Types of Accidents Involving 18-Wheelers
Here are the five most common types of accidents involving 18-wheelers:
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions occur when a truck collides with the vehicle in front of it. These accidents can result from many factors, such as distracted driving, speeding, or tailgating. Because of their size and weight, 18-wheelers need greater stopping distances than smaller vehicles, making them more prone to rear-end collisions.
- Jackknife Accidents: A jackknife accident happens when the truck’s trailer swings outward from the cab. This typically occurs when the truck’s wheels lose traction with the road surface due to sudden braking, slippery conditions, or steering too sharply. Jackknife accidents can result in multi-vehicle collisions and significant personal injury and property damage.
- Rollovers: Rollover accidents occur when the truck tips onto its side or roof. These accidents can occur due to various factors, including speeding, sharp turns, shifting cargo, or uneven weight distribution. Rollovers can result in crushing injuries, fatalities, and extensive damage to other vehicles and property.
- Underride Accidents: Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of an 18-wheeler and slides underneath its trailer. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle when the truck’s trailer crushes the passenger compartment. Inadequate underride guards or poor visibility conditions can contribute to the occurrence of underride accidents.
- Blind Spot Collisions: Due to their size and design, 18-wheelers have significant blind spots, where smaller vehicles are not visible to the truck driver. Collisions can occur when a vehicle enters these blind spots and the truck driver doesn’t see the vehicle. Blind spot accidents often happen during lane changes, merging, or when a vehicle travels alongside a truck. Blind spot collisions are exacerbated by Improperly adjusted mirrors, driver distraction, and fatigue.
Contact Lopez Franco PLLC
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight disparity between trucks and smaller vehicles. Understanding the common types of accidents involving these large commercial vehicles can help drivers take necessary precautions to avoid collisions and ensure road safety for all motorists. Vigilant driving, maintaining safe distances, and being aware of a truck’s blind spots are critical measures to prevent accidents involving 18-wheelers. Additionally, adherence to traffic laws and regulations, proper maintenance of trucks, and adequate training for truck drivers are crucial in reducing the incidence of these serious accidents on our roads.
At Lopez Franco PLLC, we are experienced, knowledgeable, and caring Houston accident attorneys who can help you understand your rights if you’ve been injured by a semi-truck or tractor-trailer. Contact us today for a free consultation.