Common Injuries in Tractor-Trailer Accidents
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Tractor-trailer accidents often cause severe injuries due to the vehicles’ sheer size and weight. Combined with highway speeds, the impact can have life-changing consequences. Truck accidents are also likely to cause serious property damage to smaller vehicles, which can make it difficult for you to travel to doctor’s appointments or return to work. Here are a few types of injuries associated with big truck accidents.
- Broken bones and compound fractures affecting the head, torso, or limbs
- Traumatic brain injuries due to concussions or head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in nerve damage or paralysis
- Internal injuries and organ damage due to blunt-force trauma
- Cuts, lacerations, and scars
- Burns due to vehicle fires, chemicals, or flammable cargo
- Whiplash and soft-tissue injuries, especially in rear-end collisions
- Pinch and crush injuries or amputations caused by the vehicle
- Psychological trauma, such as anxiety, PTSD, and nightmares
Most Common Causes of Big Truck Accidents in Grand Rapids
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Tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers are vital for moving essential goods across the state and the nation. Unfortunately, auto accidents still happen even when drivers are experienced and equipment is in good working condition. Here are a few of the most common reasons why commercial truck accidents occur on secondary roads and major highways like I-96 and I-196 in West Michigan.
Truck Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of semi-truck crashes. Truck drivers are often required to drive long hours, and their schedules leave little room for naps or breaks. If a fatigued driver falls asleep behind the wheel, it can be fatal. That’s why the industry has strict hours-of-service rules that limit how many hours a trucker can drive and how often they must take mandatory breaks.
Speeding
Every driver should follow a safe speed limit based on current road conditions. At highway speeds, it can take a loaded semi over 400-500 feet to come to a complete stop. When a truck driver exceeds the speed limit and does not allow enough time and space for braking, serious injuries and property damage can occur.
Driver Error
Driver-related factors play a role in over 85% of tractor-trailer accidents according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Some of the most common errors include following too closely, improper turning, cutting in front of oncoming traffic, and changing lanes without checking the blind spots.
Driver Inexperience
While some truck drivers may have years of experience behind the wheel, others are new to the industry, which can put them and other motorists at risk of serious injury. Inexperienced truckers may have more difficulty navigating complex situations, such as sharp turns, emergency braking, or obstacles in the roadway.
Distracted Driving
Many distractions exist on the road. However, cellphone use has become one of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents today. When a truck driver takes their eyes off the road or hands off the controls, the results can be deadly. Fortunately, phone records can determine if the driver made a call or text before the accident.
Driver Impairment
The commercial trucking industry strictly forbids drinking and driving, yet some truck drivers may use drugs or alcohol anyway. They may feel like they are unlikely to be caught or that they can push their luck just once. When a drunk driver is behind the wheel of a large vehicle, the chance for an accident and serious injuries increases substantially.
Improper Maintenance
If a truck driver has an accident due to faulty equipment, such as worn-out brakes or bald tires, the trucking company or their maintenance partner may be liable for damages. Under federal law, truckers must follow strict regulations regarding maintenance, repairs, and walk-around inspections. If these regulations aren’t followed, serious accidents can occur.
Improper Loading
A fully loaded semi weighs approximately 80,000 pounds. Shipping companies may be held liable for improper loading if they fail to properly balance and secure the cargo. Shifting goods and off-balance loads can cause problems with steering, breaking, and handling. In some cases, they can cause rollovers, jack-knifing, or debris-related accidents.
Faulty Parts
While trucking companies and operators are typically responsible for accidents, some cases result in third-party liability claims due to defective or improperly installed parts. Brakes, suspension systems, hydraulics, tires, lights, and trailer hitches are just a few of the parts that are vulnerable to manufacturing defects.
Grand Rapids Wrongful Death FAQs
Proceeds from wrongful death settlements are distributed to surviving family members as determined by the probate court. The judge may consider the person’s relationship to the decedent, the degree of their loss, and the level of financial support that their loved one provided. The probate court will hold a hearing to approve an order of distribution, and your lawyer may make arguments to ensure that you’re fairly compensated.
The duration of wrongful death claims depends on the complexity of the case and whether your case settles out of court or goes to trial. Simple cases can be resolved in 6 to 12 months. Contested cases involving disputed liability can take several years to resolve. Your attorney can provide more specifics based on the facts of your case.
Yes, although Michigan has a no-fault insurance system, you can file a wrongful death claim if your loved one’s injuries were caused by another party’s wrongful act or negligence. The other driver may be held responsible for recklessness, such as speeding. Other examples include distracted driving, texting while driving, or traffic violations.
In Michigan, you have 3 years from the date of death to file a lawsuit per MCL Section 600.5805. Cases involving medical malpractice or assault and battery must be filed within 2 years. Different rules apply for children and individuals who are incapacitated. Discuss your case with a wrongful death attorney in Grand Rapids as soon as possible to avoid losing your right to sue.
