Commercial vehicle accidents can be catastrophic, resulting in life-altering and life-threatening injuries. Here are the common examples of commercial vehicle accidents:
Trailers and semi-trailers haul heavy loads. Their weight, size, and width can make them unstable on roads, increasing accident risks. A trailer driver needs to stay alert all the time to steady the vehicle and minimize the risks involved.
With the growth and expansion of many businesses within Southern California, the number of delivery vehicles has doubled. More delivery vans are now on the highways and roads than a decade ago. Heavy loads and crowded highways make it more likely for them to be involved in accidents. The rush to beat delivery deadlines also contributes to these accidents.
Not all commercial vehicle accidents are caused by vehicle collisions, as some result from poorly-fastened loads. Such trucks can cause serious accidents, especially if the load falls off on a highway where there are many vehicles around. The extent of the accident can then extend to other lanes, caused by scattering loads and other vehicles trying to escape the impact.
Every driver is under the obligation to observe care and caution for the sake of everyone else using the roads. Reckless driving goes against all these obligations when someone starts acting selfishly without considering others on the road. It involves switching lanes without indicating, honking aimlessly at other motorists, speeding, and overtaking dangerously.
Commercial vehicle drivers work under extreme conditions and pressure, which can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being. If they don’t get the required rest period, it’s easy for them to make mistakes and poor judgment calls, which can result in road accidents.
Sometimes it’s not a driver’s fault when an accident occurs, but faulty vehicle parts, like failing brakes. Commercial vehicles are heavy and massive in size, and they should undergo regular maintenance to keep these parts working as they should. Tires are also other components that need frequent replacing to help with grip and handling.
Failure to observe the traffic rules or give the right of way to other motorists can lead to commercial vehicle accidents. It’s also the leading cause of fatal road accidents in Southern California. Using a mobile phone while driving is also negligent and could contribute to road accidents.
Many possible scenarios could result in a commercial vehicle accident in Southern California which include:
Drivers are in charge of operating a commercial vehicle, and they’re required to do so with care. They become liable if it’s proven that their negligent behavior, such as reckless driving, led to the accident.
Vehicle owners have a duty to take their vehicles for regular maintenance. They’re also required to clear vehicles for operation only when they have passed safety standards. They become liable when it’s proven the fault lies in their carelessness or failure to produce roadworthy vehicles.
Vehicles coming from an assembly line are expected to perform optimally without experiencing any mechanical failure. A manufacturer is liable if the commercial vehicle in question experienced mechanical failure through no fault of the driver or owner.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, the first step is seeking medical attention. Although it might seem like you have escaped physical injuries, you may have internal bleeding or severe injuries like a concussion that can affect you later.
Next, consider contacting a commercial vehicle accident attorney while the details of the accidents are still fresh and the scene of the crime is still intact. Besides collecting evidence that will be crucial to your case, our personal injury attorneys will also act as intermediaries between you and your insurance company.
They can also interview the doctors to understand the extent of your injuries. The information will help them determine the compensation you should get. Here are a few things they consider during this process:
The information on this website was written as advertising material and is intended 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.
@2024 KJT Law Group by Legal Soft
English 
Spanish 